Test: Leaf Structure - Year 11 MCQ

The cuticle is a waxy layer on the surface of the leaf that helps to minimize water loss by evaporation, thus protecting the leaf from dehydration.

Palisade mesophyll cells are rich in chloroplasts and are situated near the upper surface of the leaf to maximize light absorption for photosynthesis.

Carbon dioxide diffuses from the atmosphere through the stomata, into the air spaces, then to the mesophyll cells, and finally reaches the chloroplasts.

Guard cells control the opening and closing of stomata, thus regulating gas exchange and water loss in the leaf.

Vascular bundles, including xylem and phloem, are responsible for transporting water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the leaf.

Air spaces in the spongy mesophyll allow for the efficient exchange of gases (such as carbon dioxide and oxygen) necessary for photosynthesis.

The cuticle on the upper epidermis minimizes water loss by evaporation, thus protecting the leaf from excessive dehydration.

The palisade mesophyll is located near the upper surface of the leaf and is densely packed with chloroplasts to capture as much light as possible for photosynthesis.

In dicotyledonous leaves, vascular bundles are usually arranged in a central vein or veins, providing a structured network for nutrient and water transport.

The spongy mesophyll, with its air spaces, facilitates the exchange of gases necessary for photosynthesis and respiration.