Chapter 10, Problem 4Q

Summary Introduction

To review:

Comparison of shade-tolerant and shade-intolerant plants, in terms of leaf surface area and reason for adaption to shade.

Given:

Table 1 represents the data related to specific leaf surface area in the shade-tolerant and shade-intolerant plants.

Table 1: The data related to specific leaf surface area in the shade-tolerant and shade-intolerant plants.

Where dm²/g denotes decimeter square per gram.

Introduction:

The surface area of leaves plays important role in the process of photosynthesis. The light required for photosynthesis is mainly absorbed by the leaves. Leaves with large surface areas are capable of absorbing more light than the leaves with less surface area. Shade intolerant and shade tolerant plants differ in the surface area of their leaves.