# Explain how the structure of a leaf is adapted to allow efficient gas exchange during photosynthesis.

> AQA GCSE Biology (8461) — 4.2.3 Plant tissues, organs and systems · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Spongy mesophyll contains air spaces / large gaps between cells
2. Air spaces allow gases (carbon dioxide and oxygen) to diffuse / move through the leaf
3. Stomata (in the lower epidermis) allow gases to enter and leave the leaf
4. Leaves are thin / flat so gases only have a short distance to diffuse to reach cells

## Key terms

- [gas exchange](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/gas-exchange)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Biology (8461)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-the-structure-of-a-8045e7e9) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.