Structure of a leaf
Structure of a leaf Photosynthesis The photosynthesis equation is: Carbon dioxide + water → glucose + oxygen Leaves are adapted for photosynthesis in several ways. Function Broad leaves Maximize sunlight absorption Thin leaves Shorten gas diffusion distance Network of tubes Transport water, minerals and glucose (or food) Lots of chloroplasts Trap sun energy with chlorophyll Stomata Allow gas exchange in and out of leaf Guard cells Control stomata opening and closing Midrib Strengthen and support the leaf Petiole Connect the leaf to the stem
Photosynthesis is how leaves make food from light, using chlorophyll to turn water and carbon dioxide into oxygen and glucose.
Plant adaptation
Light Carbon dioxide Water Root cells have no chloroplasts, as they are in the dark and cannot do photosynthesis.
Leaves have a large surface area and a waxy layer to absorb and protect light. The upper part has palisade cells with many chloroplasts and a tall shape to catch more light.
Leaves take in carbon dioxide from the air through stomata, small holes on the underside. Guard cells adjust the stomata size to prevent water loss. The lower part has spongy cells with air spaces to let carbon dioxide reach other cells and oxygen leave.
Leaves get water from the roots through tubes. The roots have root hair cells that stick out into the soil and have a big surface area and thin walls to absorb water easily.
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