leaf structure

large surface area- exposing more area to sunlight, and easier absorption of materials thin - allows carbon dioxide to diffuse quickly to the photosynthetic cells

function: stops water from evaporating from the leaf adaptation: waxy layer

function: the site of photosynthesis adaptation: contains chlorophyll to absorb light, and enzymes and structures needed for photosynthesis

function: protects the inner cells adaptation: thin layer without chloroplasts, which lets light pass through for photosynthesis

function: tissue in which photosynthesis happens adaptation: box-shaped cells that pack closely together;each cell has lots of chloroplastspushed to the edges of the cell by a large vacuole so they can absorb more light

function: carries water and mineral ions from the roots to the leaf adaptation: made from dead cells, forming hollow, waterproof tubes,through which water passes

function: carries sucrose away from the leaf adaptation: consists of sieve tubes (through which the sucrose is transported) and companion cells (that provide energy for the transport)

contains the xylem and phloem tissues

function: protects the inner cells adaptation: thin layer that (apart from guard cells) does not contain chloroplasts, which lets light pass through for photosynthesis

function: work in pairs to control the size of the opening of a stoma adaptation: entry and loss of water from the guard cells (due to osmosis) results in changes in their shape; this in turn leads to the opening and closing of the stoma

function: controls the diffusion of water vapour and gases in and out of the leaf adaptation: the size of the opening changes in response to the internal and external environments of the plant

allow diffusion of gases throughout the leaf

function: site of gas exchange adaptation: cells are loosely spaced, creating air spaces to allow diffusion of gases throughout the leaf