A Typical Leaf
What are the parts of a leaf?
Goal:
Goal:
Most plant leaves have similar characteristics, such as the following:
- Petiole: This connects the leaf to the stem.
- Leaf blade: This is the flat part of the leaf.
- Veins: They carry water and food to and from the leaves.
- Midrib: This provides the strength a leaf needs, so it will not bend and/or break.
- Chloroplast: This is where photosynthesis takes place in a leaf.
Some plants also have modifications that protect their leaves or allow the plant to capture or trap animal life. Additionally, leaves will adapt, so they are able to survive. For example, plants in the rainforest have large leaves to catch streams of light under the canopy whereas plants in the desert have prickles or needles on them to protect their water and food storage.
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