[Campbell Biology P.820] What is the primary function of the palisade mesophyll in a eudicot... | Practice Question

What is the primary function of the palisade mesophyll in a eudicot leaf, as described and depicted in Figure 35.18 a ?

  • A: Regulating the opening and closing of stomatal pores.
  • B: Transporting water and minerals throughout the leaf.
  • C: Primarily specialized for light capture due to its chloroplast-rich, elongated cells.
  • D: Forming a labyrinth of air spaces for gas circulation.

Explanation

Palisade mesophyll, located beneath the upper epidermis, consists of one or more layers of elongated, chloroplast-rich cells that are specialized for light capture. This structural specialization allows it to efficiently absorb sunlight for photosynthesis.