Photosynthesis and the Role of Leaves, Science Game for Kids

Leaves are made up of veins, midribs and blades. Leaves also come in many varieties. There are simple and compound leaves, as well as needles such as those on pine trees. The leaf has a flat surface called the lamina. The lamina is designed to allow air to circulate in the leaf. The main role of leaves in photosynthesis is to capture light. This is the only way to transform sunlight into food for plants. The process requires water, carbon dioxide, and light. The leaves convert sunlight into food and carbon dioxide into energy. In addition to serving these functions, the leaves also help the plant transport gases and provide the plant with water. The process of photosynthesis is very efficient because of the chlorophyll content in the leaves. The chlorophyll in the leaves is the key to the plant’s energy. Its green color is important to the plant. It is the pigment that allows the plant to produce sugars. As a plant’s food source, its leaves use carbon dioxide from the air and sunlight for energy. These two parts are then combined to form sugar. In turn, the plants use carbon dioxide for energy. To make this sugar, the leaves need to be designed to facilitate photosynthesis. For this reason, leaves are often flat and have stomata. The leaves of a plant are specialized Besides converting sunlight into glucose, the leaves also absorb carbon dioxide. They absorb oxygen and release it into the air. A leaf’s surface area also provides the plant with water and minerals. The surface of a leaf is covered with a thin layer called the epidermis. Read Less