# Explain why the upper epidermis and palisade mesophyll are both important for efficient photosynthesis in a leaf.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 6.2 Leaf structure · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. The upper epidermis is transparent, allowing light to pass through to the palisade mesophyll.
2. The palisade mesophyll is positioned near the top of the leaf where most light is received.
3. Palisade mesophyll cells contain many chloroplasts, which contain chlorophyll to absorb light energy for photosynthesis.
4. The upper epidermis does not contain chloroplasts, so it does not block or reduce the light available to the palisade mesophyll.

## Key terms

- [upper epidermis](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/upper-epidermis)
- [palisade mesophyll](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/palisade-mesophyll)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-the-upper-epidermis-and-3ef0a556) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.