The inner leaf of a plant consists of several parts that work together to facilitate the process of photosynthesis and water absorption. These parts and their functions include:
1. Stoma: The stoma are small openings on the surface of the inner leaf that allow for the exchange of gases such as carbon dioxide and oxygen. This exchange is essential for photosynthesis to occur.
2. Guard cells: Guard cells surround the stoma and regulate their opening and closing. They help to control the flow of gases in and out of the inner leaf and prevent excessive water loss.
3. Palisade mesophyll cells: These cells are located just below the upper epidermis of the inner leaf and are responsible for photosynthesis. They contain a high concentration of chloroplasts, the organelles where photosynthesis takes place.
4. Spongy mesophyll cells: Found just below the palisade mesophyll cells, spongy mesophyll cells are responsible for gas exchange and storage of water and nutrients. They have a loose structure that allows for easy movement of gases and substances.
5. Vascular tissue: The inner leaf also contains vascular tissue, including xylem and phloem, which transport water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the plant. Xylem transports water from the roots to the inner leaf, while phloem carries sugars produced during photosynthesis to other parts of the plant.
Overall, the inner leaf plays a crucial role in the photosynthetic process of plants, as well as in the regulation of gas exchange and water absorption.
Parts and functions of an inner leaf
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