Gas Exchange (plants)

Waxy cuticle: thin waterproof layer that covers the surface of the leaf

Reduces water loss form transpiration and provides protection against pathogens

Epidermis: outmost cellular layer

Provides protection, as well as specialised structures like stomata

Stomata: small openings primarily responsible for gas exchange

Allow CO2 to enter the leaf and O2 to exit, while also enabling water vapor to escape through transpiration

Spongy mesophyll: layer of loosely packed cells

Contains numerous air spaces between cells that allow room for gases to diffuse in and out

Stoma: the opening in the lower epidermis of the cell

The stomata are controlled by guard cells, which controls the rate of gas exchange and water loss

Veins: ensure the final chemical products from the reactants of gas exchange are transported as needed to other parts of the plant

This ensures a concentration gradient that allows continual gas exchange