Leaf Structure Diagram PDF
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Uploaded by BenevolentKremlin
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Summary
This diagram displays the cross-section of a leaf, showing the palisade layer, spongy mesophyll, vascular tissue (xylem and phloem), and epidermis. The structure is important for gas exchange and photosynthesis. It also highlights the roles played by guard cells and stomata.
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## Leaf Structure The image illustrates the cross-section of a leaf, highlighting its various components and their functions. ### Top - **Cuticle (waxy)**: A protective layer covering the outer surface of the leaf. - **Upper Epidermis**: A layer of cells that provides protection. ### Middle...
## Leaf Structure The image illustrates the cross-section of a leaf, highlighting its various components and their functions. ### Top - **Cuticle (waxy)**: A protective layer covering the outer surface of the leaf. - **Upper Epidermis**: A layer of cells that provides protection. ### Middle - **Palisade Layer**: A layer of closely packed cells with many chloroplasts for photosynthesis. - **Spongy Mesophyll**: A layer of loosely packed cells, also with chloroplasts, that allows for gas exchange and water storage. - **Vascular Tissue**: Transport system within the leaf, consisting of: - **Xylem**: Transports water and minerals up from the roots. - **Phloem**: Transports sugar produced during photosynthesis to other parts of the plant. - **Products (sugar)**: Indicates the direction of sugar transport within the phloem. ### Bottom - **Lower Epidermis**: Another protective cell layer. - **Stomata - Openings that allow for gas exchange**: Small openings regulated by guard cells: - **Guard cells**: Control the opening and closing of stomata, regulating gas exchange and water loss. - **Regulate opening and closing of stomata**: Indicates the role of guard cells in controlling the stomatal openings. ### Leaf Function The image demonstrates how different layers of the leaf contribute to photosynthesis and gas exchange: - **light absorption**: The palisade layer is responsible for absorbing light for photosynthesis. - **Gas exchange**: The spongy mesophyll allows for the exchange of carbon dioxide and oxygen during photosynthesis and respiration. - **H<sub>2</sub>O**: Water is transported up to the leaves via the xylem, where it is used in photosynthesis. - **Products (sugar)**: Sugar produced during photosynthesis is transported throughout the plant by the phloem.
