Structure of a leaf for photosynthesis

In order for photosynthesis to occur efficiently in a plant and be most effective, the factors that influence photosynthesis must not be inhibited by a plants structure. A leaf is specifically adapted for photosynthesis in various ways both internal and external.

The veins that wrong along the leaf are for support and to transport water and the carbohydrates produced.

Light

1. The leaf is large and has a large surface area.
2. The leaf is covered in wax [gas exchange] this is transparent hence it does not reduce the intensity of the light entering the leaf.
3. The palisade cells are situated close to the top of the leaf and contain chlorophyll to ensure the maximum amount of light is absorbed.
4. The epidermis layer is thin and transparent to not block out the light.

Carbon Dioxide

1. The leaf is thin for a short diffusion distance.
2. The spongy mesophyll contains large air spaces for the carbon dioxide to diffuse through the leaf.
3. The stomata are situated near the bottom to ensure gas exchange is effective.
 

Mineral ions

These are significant for the growth of a plant. They are situated in the soil and are taken into the plant through active transport. Active transport is the taking in of molecules against the concentration gradient using energy released from respiration.

Nitrates are taken up to gel construct amino acids for protein. Without it, the plant will wilt.
Magnesium is used in chlorophyll. Without it, leaves would turn yellow.