O LevelBiologyCambridge (CIE)Revision Notes6. Plant Nutrition6.2 Leaf StructureLeaf Structure

Leaf Structure (Cambridge (CIE) O Level Biology): Revision Note

Exam code: 5090

Written by: Naomi Holyoak

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

Updated on 2 July 2026

Leaf Structure & Adaptations for Photosynthesis

Leaves are plant organs that carry out photosynthesis
Their structure is adapted to maximise photosynthesis, e.g.
- They have a large surface area to maximise light absorption
- They are thin to allow efficient movement of gases between leaf cells and the surrounding air

Leaf structure diagram

How photosynthesising cells obtain carbon dioxide

Leaves are adapted to carry out photosynthesis by being thin; this allows gases to diffuse quickly, e.g. carbon dioxide can diffuse quickly between the surrounding air and the photosynthesising cells of the leaf

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Author: Naomi Holyoak

Expertise: Biology Content Creator

Naomi graduated from the University of Oxford with a degree in Biological Sciences. She has 8 years of classroom experience teaching Key Stage 3 up to A-Level biology, and is currently a tutor and A-Level examiner. Naomi especially enjoys creating resources that enable students to build a solid understanding of subject content, while also connecting their knowledge with biology’s exciting, real-world applications.

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Content Creator

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.