Light and Plants

​The leaves of plants come in a variety of sizes, colors, and shapes. Each type of plant has leaves with distinct characteristics. However, most leaves have one characteristic in common. Most leaves are flat.

Why do you think they are mostly flat?

​Recall that plants perform photosynthesis primarily in their leaves. The typical flat shape of a leaf helps it to perform photosynthesis efficiently. In this lesson, you will learn about:

• chlorophyll

• leaf structure

​Does anybody know what plant this is?

​Poison Ivy................

​Chlorophyll

Recall that plant cells contain organelles called chloroplasts. Chloroplasts are the structures that make leaves appear green. Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in chloroplasts. Chlorophyll is green because it reflects green light. Chlorophyll absorbs at least some of the other visible wavelengths.

​The Role of Chlorophyll in Plants Video

​If Plants Liked Chocolate LOLOL

​Leaf Structure

The primary job of a leaf is to perform photosynthesis for the plant. Most leaves are broad, flat, and thin because this structure helps the leaf to perform its function. A cross-section of a leaf shows several structures that help with photosynthesis.

• ​cuticle

• palisade mesophyll

• spongy mesophyll

• stomata

​Edio Page 5 and 6

​Quiz Wednesday Use The Review Gimkit To Review!!!!! It is posted on our course homepage!