Leaf Structure

In most plants, leaves are the major sites of photosynthesis. Thus, we can think of leaves as "photosynthesis machines" and use our knowledge of natural selection to try to understand aspects of leaf structure.

Further Reading

http://micro.magnet.fsu.edu/cells/leaftissue/leaftissue.html

Expected Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course a fully engaged student should be able to

- discuss important differences between animals and plants in gas uptake
- diagram the cross section of a leaf
- discuss the characteristics and purpose of the cuticle, stomata, spongy mesophyl cells, and the palisade cells.
- explain the adaptive basis of leaf structure