Plant Leaves Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the main function of a leaf?

The main function of the leaf is to absorb light and carry out photosynthesis.

How are leaves protected from excessive loss of water?

The waxy cuticle provides a waterproof barrier.

What would happen to a plant if its stomata stayed open all the time?

The plant would dehydrate.

Describe an environment where the leaves would have stomata that are closed most of the time.

They live in dry environments therefore they need to conserve water. Signup and view all the answers

In what part of the leaf does photosynthesis usually occur?

Photosynthesis occurs in the ground tissue called mesophyll. Signup and view all the answers

How does the leaf get water for photosynthesis?

Water is absorbed by the roots and is transported by the xylem to the leaves. Signup and view all the answers

How does the leaf get carbon dioxide for photosynthesis?

Carbon dioxide enters the leaf through the stomata. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the sugars after they are produced?

The sugars are transported out of the leaf and throughout the plant by the phloem, and some is stored in the roots. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the oxygen made during photosynthesis?

Oxygen leaves the leaf through the stomata. Signup and view all the answers

What is a pitcher plant or Venus fly trap?

Lives in nutrient-poor (nitrogen) environments; they are shaped to trap organisms. Signup and view all the answers

What are rock plants?

Leaves adapted for hot, dry conditions. They are round with few stomata. The leaves are clear so light can penetrate the leaf. Signup and view all the answers

What are pine needles?

The waxy epidermis as well as the stomata that are sunken below the surface of the leaf conserve water. Signup and view all the answers

What is broadleaf?

The broad, flat leaves collect sunlight. Signup and view all the answers

What is a cactus?

Leaves are actually long, pointed nonphotosynthetic thorns. The stems are photosynthetic. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Main Functions of Leaves

Absorb light and perform photosynthesis for food production.

Water Conservation

Waxy cuticle acts as a waterproof barrier, protecting leaves from excessive water loss.

Stomata Function

If stomata remained open continuously, the plant would experience dehydration.

Leaf Adaptations in Dry Environments

In arid conditions, leaves typically have closed stomata to conserve water.

Site of Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis predominantly occurs in the mesophyll, the ground tissue of the leaf.

Water Acquisition for Photosynthesis

Roots absorb water, which is then transported to leaves via xylem.

Carbon Dioxide Source

Carbon dioxide enters the leaf through the stomata, facilitating photosynthesis.

Sugars Post-Photosynthesis

Produced sugars are transported throughout the plant via phloem, with some stored in roots.

Oxygen Release

Oxygen generated during photosynthesis exits the leaf through stomata.

Unique Plant Adaptations

Pitcher Plants/Venus Flytraps: Adapted to nutrient-poor environments, designed to trap organisms for nutrient absorption.
Rock Plants: Feature round leaves with few stomata, clear surfaces for light penetration, suited for hot, dry conditions.
Pine Needles: Possess a waxy epidermis and sunken stomata to conserve water; slender shape aids in water retention.
Broadleaf Plants: Have broad, flat leaves to maximize sunlight collection.
Cacti: Have non-photosynthetic thorns serving as leaves; their stems perform photosynthesis.

Description

Explore the essential functions and structures of plant leaves through these flashcards. Learn about photosynthesis, water protection, and the role of stomata in plants. Perfect for students studying botany or plant biology.