Structure of a leaf!!
It’s important for the leaf structure to adapt in order to maximize the process of photosynthesis
What is the formula of photosynthesis?
6CO2 + 6H2O + Energy(sunlight) → C6H12O6(glucose/sugar) + 6O2
Cuticle
The waxy layer on a leaf that prevents water loss
Upper and lower epidermis
Transparent skin that lets in light and protects the leaf
Palisade parenchyma
-Contains chloroplast that preforms photosynthesis
-Makes glucose
Spongey parenchyma
-Air pockets containing CO2 and O2
-Allows the interchange of gases necessary for photosynthesis
Veins
-Contains the xylem and phloem
-Xylem: Transports H2O and minerals from roots → leaves
-Phloem: Transports glucose from leaves → roots(as sucrose)
Stoma
-Allows gases in and out
-CO2 goes in, O2 and H2O goes out = DIFFUSION!!
-Located on the bottom of the leaf
Guard cells
-Uses H2O pressure to regulate the stoma size
-Located on the bottom of the leaf
Leaf, “organ”
Large, flat surface area for increases light absorption