Structure of a leaf

• What are the different levels of organization in plants?

  Cells, tissues, organs, organ systems
• What is the function of the organ system formed by leaves, stems, and roots?

  Transport of substances around the plant
• What is the primary function of leaves?

  Site of photosynthesis
• What do leaves require for photosynthesis?

  Carbon dioxide and water
• How is water transported to the leaves?

  By roots and xylem
• Where are stomata primarily located on leaves?

  Lower epidermis
• What are stomata?

  Little holes for gas exchange
• What happens to carbon dioxide after it diffuses through stomata?

  It moves to spongy mesophyll tissue
• What is the role of the palisade mesophyll layer?

  Site of most photosynthesis
• Why are palisade cells packed with chloroplasts?

  To maximize photosynthesis efficiency
• What is the function of phloem in plants?

  Transport sugars to the rest of the plant
• What is the main problem leaves face regarding water?

  Water loss through evaporation
• How does the waxy cuticle help leaves?

  Reduces water loss
• How do guard cells regulate stomata?

  By changing their turgidity
• What happens to guard cells when the plant has enough water?

  They become turgid and open stomata
• What occurs to guard cells when the plant is short of water?

  They become flaccid and close stomata
• Why do most stomata open during the day?

  To allow carbon dioxide for photosynthesis
• Why are stomata primarily located on the underside of leaves?

  To reduce water evaporation
• What is meristem tissue in plants?

  Plant form of stem cells
• Where is meristem tissue found?

  At growing tips of roots and shoots
• What are the key functions of leaves in plants?

  • Site of photosynthesis
  • Gas exchange through stomata
  • Transport of sugars via phloem
  • Regulation of water loss
• How do guard cells and stomata work together to balance gas exchange and water loss?

  • Guard cells control stomata opening and closing
  • Open for carbon dioxide intake during the day
  • Close to conserve water when needed
• What are the layers of a leaf and their functions?

  • Upper epidermis: Transparent for light passage
  • Palisade mesophyll: Main site of photosynthesis
  • Spongy mesophyll: Gas diffusion
  • Lower epidermis: Contains stomata for gas exchange
• What is the relationship between xylem and phloem in leaves?

  • Xylem transports water to leaves
  • Phloem transports sugars from leaves
  • Both are essential for plant function
• What adaptations do leaves have to minimize water loss?

  • Waxy cuticle on the upper surface
  • Stomata primarily on the underside
  • Guard cells regulate stomata based on water availability
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  Structure of a leaf