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Leaves enable photosynthesis to happen. Photosynthesis is the process by which leaves absorb light and carbon dioxide to produce carbohydrate (food) for plants to grow. Leaves are adapted to perform their function eg they have a large surface area to absorb sunlight.
Leaves and photosynthesis
Functions of leaves
The function of a leaf is photosynthesis – to absorb light and carbon dioxide to produce carbohydrates.
Did you know?
- Leaves are the source of all of the world’s food?
- Leaves recycle all of the world’s carbon dioxide?
- Leaves contain the world’s most abundant enzyme?
Leaves are adapted in several ways to help them perform their function.
Features of leaves
| Adaption | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large surface area | To absorb more light |
| Thin | Short distance for carbon dioxide to diffuse into leaf cells |
| Chlorophyll | Absorbs sunlight to transfer energy into chemicals |
| Network of veins | To support the leaf and transport water and carbohydrates |
| Stomata | Allow carbon dioxide to diffuse into the leaf |
Inside the leaf
The internal structure of the leaf is also adapted to promote efficient photosynthesis:
Structure of leaves
| Adaption | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Epidermis is thin and transparent | To allow more light to reach the palisade cells |
| Thin cuticle made of wax | To protect the leaf without blocking out light |
| Palisade cell layer at top of leaf | To absorb more light |
| Spongy layer | Air spaces allow carbon dioxide to diffuse through the leaf, and increase the surface area |
| Palisade cells contain many chloroplasts | To absorb all the available light |
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