leaf structure

• the waxy cuticle reduces water loss from the leaf and provides protection from pathogens
• the upper epidermis helps protect the leaf and allows light to teach the palisade cells
• the palisade mesophyll contains chloroplast to help them perform photosynthesis. arranged closely together so lots of light energy can be absorbed
• the spongy mesophyll allows carbon dioxide to diffuse into the cells and oxygen to diffuse them out. it contains the vascular bundle
• the lower epidermis contains stomata
• the stomata is used for gas exchange
• the xylem transports water and solutes and provides support and storage
• the phloem carries sucrose downward from the leaves to the roots
• the vascular bundle transports critical substances to different parts of the plant