Leaf Anatomy And Photosynthesis Leaf Morphology Assignment | Homework For You
Discussion Leaf anatomy and Photosynthesis LEAF MORPHOLOGY – Examine the leaves on display, noting that a leaf typically consists of a blade with veins and an attachment stalk, called a petiole. Simple leaves have one blade connected to the petiole, while compound leaves have several leaflets sharing a common petiole. LEAF ANATOMY – A ‘TYPICAL’ DICOT LEAF Examine the leaf first with low power to gain an overall impression of its anatomy. Note the size and orientation of the veins within the leaf.
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The veins contain xylem and phloem tissue which is responsible for carrying water and dissolved organic molecules (food) respectively. Find the centrally located midvein within the midrib.
(i) cuticle – a waxy, waterproof layer of non-cellular material covering the upper epidermis.
(ii) epidermis – a single layer of cells.
(iii) palisade mesophyll – consists of cells rich in chloroplasts elongated perpendicularly to the leaf surface. Leaves may have one or more rows of palisade cells.
(iv) spongy mesophyll – loosely arranged cells of various shapes, frequently with branches extending from one cell to the other. Note the large volume of air space within the spongy mesophyll.
(v) lower epidermis with stoma. Each stoma (singular) consists of 2 guard cells and a pore which leads into the air spaces within the spongy mesophyll. Get Biology homework help today