Help yourself to learn the anatomy of a leaf using these free and printable labeled diagrams! These 101 Diagramss are designed to guide you in studying the structure of a leaf. Leaves can be found in a variety of shapes and sizes; most leaves are broad, flat and typically green in color. The leaf is the site of photosynthesis where the process of absorbing energy from sunlight and using it to produce food in the form of sugars occurs. Leaves also generate oxygen during photosynthesis and are major contributors to the cycle of carbon and oxygen in the environment. The first leaf diagram is posted right below.
From the leaf diagram above, it can be seen that the surface of the leaf has a thin waxy covering called the cuticle. This layer’s primary function is to prevent water loss within the leaf. Directly underneath the cuticle is a layer of cells called the epidermis. The vascular tissue, xylem and phloem are found within the veins of the leaf. Veins are actually extensions that run from to tips of the roots all the way up to the edges of the leaves. The outer layer of the vein is made of cells called bundle sheath cells, and they create a circle around the xylem and the phloem. Find more detailed structure of the leaf in the following 101 Diagramss.
Shown on the pictures, there is a layer of cells called the mesophyll within the leaf. Mesophyll can be divided into two layers, the palisade layer and the spongy layer. Palisade cells are more column-like, and lie just under the epidermis, the spongy cells are more loosely packed and lie between the palisade layer and the lower epidermis. The air spaces between the spongy cells allow for gas exchange. Mesophyll cells are packed with chloroplasts, and this is where photosynthesis actually occurs. Epidermis also lines the lower area of the leaf (as does the cuticle). The leaf also has tiny holes within the epidermis called stomata. Specialized cells, called guard cells surround the stomata and are shaped like two cupped hands. Changes within water pressure cause the stoma to open or close. If the guard cells are full of water, they swell up and bend away from each other which opens the stoma. During dry times, the guard cells close.
You can choose any kind of leaf diagrams by clicking on the image and save it for free. All images are provided in high definition and quality. Find other kinds of educational diagrams on the other posts in this site!