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Question 47

The waxy cuticle covers the whole upper surface of a leaf, yet the cells beneath it still photosynthesise well. Which property of the cuticle explains that?

  1. It is opaque, so it shades the leaf from light that is too strong
  2. It has holes in it that let light reach the cells beneath
  3. It is stripped away by the plant whenever the sun comes out
  4. It is transparent, so it holds water in without keeping light outCorrect answer

Explanation

A waterproof covering would be self-defeating if it shaded the tissue it protects, and this one lets light through unchanged while still holding water in. Students picture the wax as a dull opaque coat, but a leaf loses none of its light to it, and the covering is continuous rather than perforated.

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Question 47: The waxy cuticle covers the whole upper surface of a leaf,… · Plants and Photosynthesis · Questena