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Leaf structure: exam questions

5 questions, 14 marks. Write your answers on paper, then open each mark scheme.

Question 1

Which part of a leaf contains the most chloroplasts?

  1. Upper epidermis
  2. Palisade mesophyll
  3. Spongy mesophyll
  4. Guard cells
[1 mark]
Show mark scheme for question 1

Answer: B (1)

Question 2

State two ways in which most leaves are adapted for photosynthesis because of their shape, and explain one of them.

[3 marks]
Show mark scheme for question 2
  • large surface area (1)
  • thin (1)
  • large surface area absorbs more light / thin so light reaches all cells / thin so short distance for carbon dioxide to diffuse (1)

Question 3

The diagram of a leaf cross-section has four labelled parts: W (upper epidermis), X (palisade mesophyll), Y (air spaces) and Z (stoma). Describe the function of each part in photosynthesis. [4]

[4 marks]
Show mark scheme for question 3
  • W: transparent / lets light through to the cells below (1)
  • X: contains many chloroplasts / absorbs light for photosynthesis (1)
  • Y: allow carbon dioxide to diffuse through to the cells (1)
  • Z: allows carbon dioxide to enter (and oxygen to leave) (1)

Question 4

(a) Name the two tissues found in the vascular bundle of a leaf. [1] (b) State the role of each tissue in a leaf. [2] (c) Explain why the cells of the palisade mesophyll are close to the upper surface of the leaf. [2]

[5 marks]
Show mark scheme for question 4
  • (a) xylem and phloem (1)
  • (b) xylem: brings water to the leaf (1)
  • (b) phloem: carries sucrose / products of photosynthesis away from the leaf (1)
  • (c) this is where the most light reaches (1)
  • (c) so more light is absorbed by the chloroplasts for photosynthesis (1)

Question 5

What is the main function of the guard cells?

  1. to absorb light
  2. to open and close the stomata
  3. to carry water to the leaf
  4. to store starch
[1 mark]
Show mark scheme for question 5

Answer: B (1)