Plant Gas Exchange

• What are the adaptations of leaves for gas exchange?

  Many stomata and short diffusion pathways
• Why are numerous interconnecting air spaces important in leaves?

  They allow gases to contact mesophyll cells
• What is the significance of the large surface area of mesophyll cells?

  It allows for rapid diffusion
• What are xerophytes?

  Plants adapted to low water availability
• How do xerophytes reduce water loss?

  They have a thick, waxy cuticle
• What is the effect of rolling up leaves in xerophytes?

  It traps humid air and reduces water loss
• How do hairy leaves help xerophytes?

  They trap water vapor and reduce air movement
• What is the role of stomata in pits or grooves in xerophytes?

  They trap water vapor and decrease water gradient
• How does reduced surface area to volume ratio affect xerophytes?

  It decreases water loss by evaporation