Question

Describe the main parts of a leaf with a labelled diagram. Differentiate between a Simple an a compound leaf.

Accepted Answer

The flat, thin and green lateral structure attached to the node of a stem is called a leaf. It is an important organ of a plant that is responsible for the process of photosynthesis, which produces food for the plant. The main parts of a leaf are:

Petiole: This is a stalk that attaches the leaf to the stem of the plant.

Leaf blade: This is the flat, broad, and green part of the leaf that is responsible for photosynthesis.

Veins: These are the vascular tissues that run through the blade and provide support and transport water, nutrients, and sugars to and from the leaf.

Midrib: This is the central vein that runs along the length of the blade and gives off smaller veins.

Leaf margin: This is the edge of the leaf.

Leaf apex: This is the tip of the leaf.

Leaf base: This is the bottom part of the leaf that attaches to the petiole.

The difference between a simple leaf and a compound leaf are listed below:

Characteristic feature Simple leaf Compound leaf

Definition A simple leaf consists of a single lamina attached to a petiole. A compound leaf consists of several leaflets attached to a common petiole.

Examples The leaves of a mango tree, banyan tree, etc. The leaves of a rose plant, neem tree, etc.

Dhiren M Doshi Solutions for Chapter: The Leaf, Exercise 5: EXERCISE

Petiole: This is a stalk that attaches the leaf to the stem of the plant.
Leaf blade: This is the flat, broad, and green part of the leaf that is responsible for photosynthesis.
Veins: These are the vascular tissues that run through the blade and provide support and transport water, nutrients, and sugars to and from the leaf.
Midrib: This is the central vein that runs along the length of the blade and gives off smaller veins.
Leaf margin: This is the edge of the leaf.
Leaf apex: This is the tip of the leaf.
Leaf base: This is the bottom part of the leaf that attaches to the petiole.

Dhiren M Doshi Biology Solutions for Exercise - Dhiren M Doshi Solutions for Chapter: The Leaf, Exercise 5: EXERCISE

Questions from Dhiren M Doshi Solutions for Chapter: The Leaf, Exercise 5: EXERCISE with Hints & Solutions

Learn and Prepare for any exam you want !