In a leaf palisade cell (a specialised plant cell for photosynthesis), give one way the cell is adapted to carry out photosynthesis.

What you are being asked

You need to name one structural feature of a palisade cell that helps it do photosynthesis well, and link that feature to how it improves photosynthesis.

One clear adaptation that scores marks

• Many chloroplasts: chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, which absorbs light energy.

Why that helps photosynthesis

More chloroplasts means more chlorophyll, so the cell can capture more light. Capturing more light provides more energy for the reactions of photosynthesis, increasing the rate of photosynthesis.

Other acceptable adaptations (any one is enough)

• Tall, column shape so cells pack tightly near the top of the leaf where light is strongest.
• Large vacuole that pushes chloroplasts to the edge of the cell, shortening the diffusion path for $CO_2$.
• Thin cell wall so light and $CO_2$ can enter easily.