Describe the shape of spongy mesophyll and explain how the shape of spongy mesophyll is and advantage for processes taking place in the leaf

Answer 1

The spongy mesophyll is made up of irregularly shaped cells with large intercellular spaces in between them. They are typically rounded or elongated in shape with uneven walls and abundant chloroplasts. The shape of spongy mesophyll is an advantage for processes taking place in the leaf because it increases the surface area available for gas exchange. The large intercellular spaces in between the cells allow for the diffusion of gases such as oxygen, carbon dioxide and water vapour. This diffusion is critical to the process of photosynthesis, which takes place in the chloroplasts of mesophyll cells. The irregular shape of spongy mesophyll cells creates a labyrinthine network of spaces, which allows for efficient transport of gases throughout the leaf. Additionally, the shape of spongy mesophyll cells allows them to resist damage from external forces such as wind or rain.