Leaves
1 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
2 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
How do leaves maximize photosynthesis?
Leaves are the most efficient
solar panels on Earth!
What does this mean?
Like solar panels, leaves
convert energy from the
Sun into usable chemical
energy. This is through the
photosynthesis reaction.
Leaves come in a variety of
shapes and sizes, but they
share certain features that
maximize photosynthesis.
3 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
Photosynthesis
4 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
How are leaves adapted for photosynthesis?
5 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
Structure of a leaf activity
6 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
Photosynthetic pigments
7 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
8 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
Take a look inside a leaf
9 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
Looking at real leaves
10 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
Palisade cells
11 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
How do gases enter and leave plants?
On the underside of leaves are small holes, or pores,
called stomata. A single hole is called a stoma.
Each stoma is surrounded by two guard cells.
When guard cells gain
water, they curve outwards.
This opens the stoma,
allowing carbon dioxide in
and oxygen out.
Losing water causes the guard
cells to come closer together,
closing the stoma. This stops
the movement of gases, but
also prevents water loss.
12 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
Water
As well as carbon dioxide,
photosynthesis also
requires water.
Water is taken in by the
roots and travels up the
stem of the plant. It is
distributed to the leaves
through the veins.
Water is also needed to hold
the plant upright so that it
can absorb more light.
13 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
Leaf adaptations
14 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
15 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
Glossary
16 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011
Multiple-choice quiz
17 of 17
© Boardworks Ltd 2011