How is chloroplasts specialised for photosynthesis

The lower part of the leaf is a spongy layer with loose-fitting cells. These let carbon dioxide reach the other cells in the leaf, and also let the oxygen produced in photosynthesis leave the leaf easily. The water needed for photosynthesis is absorbed through the roots and transported through tubes to the leaf.

The roots have a type of cell called a root hair cell. These project out from the root into the soil, and have a big surface area and thin walls. This lets water pass into them easily. Note that root cells do not contain chloroplasts, as they are normally in the dark and cannot carry out photosynthesis. Adaptations of the leaf The leaf is a plant organ adapted to carry out photosynthesis. The table describes some of its adaptations: Adaptation Function Thin Provides a short distance for carbon dioxide to move by diffusion into the leaf Contains chlorophyll Absorbs light Stomata Allows carbon dioxide to move by diffusion into the leaf Guard cells To open and close the stomata depending on the conditions Network of tubes xylem and phloem To transport water xylem and food phloem Light A leaf usually has a large surface area, so that it can absorb a lot of light.

A cross-section through a leaf showing its main parts Carbon dioxide Plants get the carbon dioxide they need from the air through their leaves. The scientists have been investigating the use of gold Going for Gold to Reduce Antibiotic Resistance.

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Photosynthesis 3: Genetics 1. Genes 2. Chromosomes 3. Meiosis 4. Inheritance 5. Genetic Modification 4: Ecology 1. Energy Flow 3. Carbon Cycling 4. Climate Change 5: Evolution 1. Evolution Evidence 2. Natural Selection 3. Classification 4. Cladistics 6: Human Physiology 1.