Leaf Structure
So you’ve come all this way – so let’s learn a little about the structure of the leaf!
The leaf structure is initially quite confusing to get your head around, but hopefully our video below will clarify this. We also know there are lots of tricky terms as well to understand such as the palisade mesophyll, epidermis and spongy mesophyll, so you can head to our glossary page if you have any trouble.
The process of photosynthesis is complex, so it is not surprising that the structure of the leaf is just as intricate.
CohoChoo Leaf Structure Video from Jasmine Eskenzi on Vimeo.
Leaf Structure
| Adaptation | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Surface Area | To absorb more light for photosynthesis. |
| Thin Leaf Skin | For a short distance for the carbon dioxide to diffuse into the leaf cells. |
| Chlorophyll | This absorbs sunlight to transfer energy into chemicals. |
| Network of Veins | To support the leaf and to transport water and carbohydrates around the plant. |
| Stomata | To allow carbon dioxide to diffuse into the leaf. |