Palisade Mesophyll Cell You can use this table of contents. 01 STRUCTURE 02 FUNCTIONS 03 ADAPTATIONS 01 - Structure Structure Of Palisade Cells: The palisade mesophyll cells are located in the leaves of plants and are structured to maximise the efficiency of the leaf's function - photosynthesis The palisade mesophyll cells are situated towards the top of the leaf and are column-like in shape increasing surface area to absorb light, carbon dioxide and water Along with the key organelles mentioned for the exocrine gland cell, the palisade mesophyll cell contains the following organelles: Chloroplasts - the location of light absorption, it provides the energy for producing glucose and oxygen Permanent vacuole - it is large and central pushing the chloroplast to the edge of the cell maximising absorption of light. It also helps maintain water balance The palisade mesophyll cell also contains the extra-cellular structure: Cell wall - it is mainly made of cellulose, is freely permeable (allowing carbon dioxide and water to move through easily) and its strength gives support to the cell (prevents the cell from bursting) 02 Function The palisade mesophyll cells play a crucial role in the process of photosynthesis, which is the primary function of these cells. Here's a detailed explanation of their functions: Photosynthesis: Palisade mesophyll cells are specialized for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy (glucose). These cells contain a high concentration of chloroplasts, which contain chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for capturing light energy. During photosynthesis, chloroplasts use light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. Palisade mesophyll cells are optimized for efficient light absorption and carbon dioxide uptake, making them the primary sites of photosynthesis in plant leaves. Maximizing Light Absorption: The structure of palisade mesophyll cells is adapted to maximize their exposure to sunlight. These cells are elongated and tightly packed, arranged perpendicular to the leaf surface. This arrangement allows them to capture as much light energy as possible for photosynthesis. Carbon Dioxide Uptake: Palisade mesophyll cells facilitate the uptake of carbon dioxide from the surrounding air through small pores called stomata, which are primarily located on the underside of leaves. Carbon dioxide is a key reactant in photosynthesis, and its uptake by palisade mesophyll cells ensures an adequate supply for the process. Storage: Palisade mesophyll cells may also serve as sites for storing starch, a carbohydrate synthesized during photosynthesis. Starch can be stored within the chloroplasts or in specialized structures called starch granules within the cell. This stored energy can be used by the plant for growth, metabolism, or reproduction. Water Regulation: While not as prominent as in some other plant cell types, palisade mesophyll cells may contain a central vacuole, which helps regulate water balance within the cell and maintain turgor pressure. This is important for maintaining cell shape and overall leaf structure. Overall, the primary function of palisade mesophyll cells is to carry out photosynthesis efficiently, providing the plant with the energy it needs for growth, development, and survival. 03 Adaptions • This is the most important and the main region of the process of photosynthesis. So, to perform this process efficiently the chlorophylls are found in the peripheral region in the cell structure so that it can absorb more quantity of sunlight. • The cell wall in them is very thin so that fast diffusion occurs. • The vacuoles of the palisade cells are large enough so that they can push the chloroplasts toward the region of periphery. Made by: Vritika Kukreja Pahal Shah Zyana Mehta Nishka Priwani Thank you!
