Structure of a Leaf

Question 1

how does the leaf being thin and having a large surface area help photosynthesis?

Answer 1

• this maximises absorption of sunlight by the photosynthetic cells
• it increases the number of stomata, so that carbon dioxide can diffuse quicker

Question 2

how does the upper epidermis specialised for photosynthesis?

Answer 2

• it is transparent, allowing light to penetrate to the mesophyll

Question 3

how are the palisade cells specialised for photosynthesis?

Answer 3

• they are long, thin and tightly packed
• they contain large numbers of chloroplasts
• this maximises the absorption of sunlight energy
• the palisade mesophyll is the main site of photosynthesis

Question 4

how are the stomata specialised for photosynthesis?

Answer 4

• stomata allow gases to diffuse into the air spaces of the leaf
• this provides a short diffusion distance for carbon dioxide

Question 5

how is the xylem specialised for photosynthesis?

Answer 5

• it transports water (absorbed in the roots) and into the leaves
• this then provides a short distance for water diffuse into the photosynthesising cells

Question 6

how are the phloem vessels specialised for photosynthesis?

Answer 6

the phloem vessels transport sugars made in photosynthesis to other parts of the plant