Aim: How are plants adapted to perform photosynthesis?

HW: Test TOMORROW!

Do Now: Photosynthesis Questions

I. Internal Leaf StructureA. The leaf is composed of six different layers of cells, each with their own specific function.

1. Cuticle

2. Upper Epidermis

3. Palisades Layer

4. Spongy Layer

5. Stomata

6. Lower Epidermis

Looking At Leaf Structure

Palisades Layer

II. Outer Leaf LayerA. The outer surfaces of the leaf provide a layer of protection for the plant.

1. Cuticle (Waxy Layer) – prevents water loss and insect damage.

III. Palisades and Spongy Leaf Layers

A. Palisade Layer - Photosynthetic cellsabsorb light (most photosynthesis occurs here)

B. Spongy layer -Photosynthetic cellsAllow gas passage

IV. Material Transportation

A. The veins of the leaf (xylem and phloem) transport water and nutrients around the plant like veins carry blood in a human.

B. Xylem + Phloem = vascular bundles

2. Phloem - Transports NUTRIENTS from the leaf (where they are made) back down to the roots.

b) Thin - walled

1. Xylem - Transports WATER up to the leaf from the roots.

a) Thick walled

V. Guard Cells and StomataA. GUARD CELLS open STOMATA (pores in a leaf) which allow carbon dioxide, oxygen and water vapor to pass.B. The stoma and guard cells help to maintain water homeostasis.

VI. Which parts carry out photosynthesis?

A. Most parts are actually clear. There is only chlorophyll in the chloroplast.

A. On the thylakoids,in the granum,in the mesophyll.