Which of the following is the correct arrangement of structures from the inside to the outside of a leaf blade?

• A. Mesophyll, vascular bundle, epidermis
• B. Epidermis, mesophyll, vascular bundle
• C. Palisade mesophyll, spongy mesophyll, lower epidermis, upper epidermis, vascular bundle
• D. Vascular bundle, lower epidermis, upper epidermis, spongy mesophyll, palisade mesophyll
• E. Vascular bundle, mesophyll, epidermis

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure of a leaf: A leaf typically consists of three main layers from the inside to the outside: the vascular bundle, the mesophyll, and the epidermis.
2. Identify the vascular bundle: This is the innermost structure, consisting of xylem and phloem, responsible for the transport of water, nutrients, and food within the plant.
3. Recognize the mesophyll layer: This layer is located between the vascular bundle and the epidermis. It is divided into two parts: the palisade mesophyll, which is rich in chloroplasts and responsible for photosynthesis, and the spongy mesophyll, which facilitates gas exchange.
4. Identify the epidermis: This is the outermost layer of the leaf, providing protection. It includes the upper and lower epidermis, with the lower epidermis often containing stomata for gas exchange.
5. Arrange the structures: From the inside to the outside, the correct order is vascular bundle, mesophyll (including both palisade and spongy), and epidermis.