Topic 3.6: Plant Nutrition and Leaf Structure

Flashcards covering key concepts related to plant nutrition and leaf structure.

Autotrophic nutrition

The process of using inorganic materials (like carbon dioxide and water) along with an external source of energy (sunlight) to build organic molecules.

Heterotrophic nutrition

Refers to the consumption of organic molecules (like proteins and carbohydrates) for energy and growth, typically occurring in animals.

Stomata

Small openings on the surface of leaves that allow for gas exchange; they are surrounded by guard cells that control their opening and closing.

Chloroplasts

Cell organelles found in plant cells responsible for photosynthesis, containing chlorophyll.

Vascular bundle

The plant structure that contains both xylem and phloem; responsible for transport of water, nutrients, and sugars.

Guard cells

Specialized cells that surround each stoma and regulate its opening and closing to control gas exchange.

Mesophyll

The inner tissue of a leaf, containing chloroplasts and primarily responsible for photosynthesis.

Petiole

The stalk that attaches a leaf to the plant, supporting its structure.

Photosynthesis

The process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose.

Translocation

The movement of nutrients like sugars and amino acids through the plant via the phloem.

Macronutrient

Essential nutrients that plants require in larger amounts, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and magnesium.

Micronutrient

Essential nutrients that plants require in small amounts, such as iron.

Chlorosis

The yellowing of leaves due to insufficient chlorophyll; commonly associated with nutrient deficiencies.

Xylem

Vascular tissue in plants that conducts water and dissolved minerals upward from the roots.

Phloem

Vascular tissue in plants that transports sugars and other metabolic products downward from the leaves.

Epidermis

The outer layer of cells covering a plant, which protects against water loss and provides a barrier to infection.

Cuticle

A waxy layer on the surface of leaves that reduces water loss and protects against pathogens.