The internal structure of a leaf that has larger air space is?

1. Analyze the question The question asks which internal leaf tissue has the largest air spaces between its cells.

2. Explain the concept A leaf has these internal layers (top to bottom):

• Upper epidermis: a protective layer of tightly packed cells with a waxy cuticle.
• Palisade mesophyll: long, column-shaped cells packed closely together, with many chloroplasts. This is where most photosynthesis happens.
• Spongy mesophyll: irregular, loosely arranged cells with large air spaces between them. These spaces let gases (CO₂, O₂, water vapour) move easily and connect to the stomata.
• Vascular bundles (veins): xylem and phloem, which carry water, minerals and food.
• Lower epidermis: contains the stomata and guard cells.

3. Solution

• A. Palisade mesophyll: cells are tightly packed, so there is little air space. Wrong.
• B. Epidermis: a continuous protective layer with no significant air spaces (only stomatal pores). Wrong.
• C. Spongy mesophyll: loosely arranged cells with large intercellular air spaces for gas exchange. Correct.
• D. Vascular bundles: transport tissue made of xylem and phloem, with no large air spaces. Wrong.

4. Answer The correct option is C. spongy mesophyll.

5. Tip Think of a sponge: it is full of holes, just as the spongy mesophyll is full of air spaces. Remember "Palisade = Packed, Spongy = Spaces."