How are leaves adapted for gas exchange?

Leaves have a large surface area, which means more space to allow CO2 to enter. They are thin so there is less for gases to travel. Leaves contain Stomata; these are small holes found distributed throughout the leaf which open and close, allowing gas exchange. Cells are organised in layers within the leaf. There are air spaces in spongey mesophyll layer which allows gases to effectively diffuse through the leaf. Finally the cells are moist which aids in gas exchange.

AM
Answered by Anika M. Biology tutor

41811 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What are tropisms?


What is contained within a nucleus of a cell and how is this made up or arranged


Describe the process of therapeutic cloning.


What are the similarities and differences between animal and plant cells?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning