The Leaf

  • A leaf is a part of a plant that is usually green and flat. It grows on the stem or branches of the plant.
  • Blade (Lamina): The flat, broad part of the leaf that captures sunlight.
  • Veins: Lines on the leaf that carry water and nutrients.
  • Petiole: The stalk that attaches the leaf to the stem.
  • Midrib: The central vein that provides support.
  • Photosynthesis: The process where leaves make food for the plant using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide.
  • Respiration: Leaves help plants breathe by taking in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide.
  • Transpiration: Leaves release extra water as vapor through tiny openings called stomata.
  • Simple Leaves: Have a single blade (e.g., mango leaf).
  • Compound Leaves: Have multiple small leaflets (e.g., neem leaf).
  • Leaves come in different shapes like oval, heart-shaped, or needle-like, and vary in size from very small to very large.
  • Parallel Venation: Veins run parallel to each other (e.g., grass).
  • Reticulate Venation: Veins form a net-like pattern (e.g., peepal).
  • They produce oxygen, which humans and animals need to breathe.
  • They provide food for plants and animals.
  • Spinach, lettuce, and mint are leaves that humans eat.
  • The color of a leaf changes to yellow, orange, or red in autumn due to less chlorophyll production.

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