Plant tissue, organs & systems Flashcards
What are they key organs of a plant?
-Root
-Leaf
-Stem
-Reproductive organ (flower)
What are the 4 layers of a plant?
-Upper epidermis
-Palisade mesophyll
-Spongy mesophyll
-Lower epidermis
What does the upper epidermis do?
It reduces water loss and the waxy cuticle lets things through
What is the structure of the upper epidermis?
-Single layer of cells
-Little/no chloroplast
-Has thick waxy cuticle
Why does the upper epidermis have no chloroplast?
To allow light to pass through
What does the palisade mesophyll do?
This is where photosynthesis happens
-Adapted for light absorption
What is the structure of the palisade mesophyll?
-Packed with chlorophyll
-Column shaped
-Close together
-Near upper staircase of lead
Why is the palisade mesophyll column shaped?
So they can fit more and maximize photosynthesis
What is the spongy mesophyll?
It is adapted for gas exchange
What is the structure of the spongy mesophyll?
-Loosely packed cells with air space
-Covered by layer of water
-Where Xylem and Phloem deliver water/mineral from sun
Why is the spongy mesophyll loosely packed?
So air can come in
What is the structure of the lower epidermis?
-Waxy cuticle
-Stomata is pores
-Controlled by guard cells containing chloroplast
Why is the stomata is pores important?
Allows gas exchange
