Leaf Structure and Function

Front

Upper epidermis

Back

Single layer of cells that are transparent and protective

Front

Palisade mesophyll

Back

Cells that carry out photosynthesis. Have the most chloroplasts

Front

Spongy mesophyll

Back

Cells with large air spaces between them allowing gas exchange between stomata and photosynthesising cells

Front

Vein

Back

Contains xylem and phloem

Front

Lower epidermis

Back

On underside of leaf, contain stomata

Front

Stomata (stoma)

Back

Pores that allow water loss and gas exchange.