Biological termEasy1 mark
2(i)
Name the following:
A waxy layer on the upper epidermis of leaves meant to reduce Transpiration.
Topic: Cuticle
Previous-year question practice database
Answer
Exam answer
CUTICLE.
Explanation
The cuticle is a waxy, waterproof layer secreted by the epidermal cells over the leaf surface. Being impermeable, it greatly reduces the water lost directly through the epidermis.
Note that it is THICKER ON THE UPPER SURFACE, which is exposed to direct sunlight and therefore loses water fastest — and thickest of all in desert plants, as the 2026 paper tests in its assertion-reason question.
THE THREE KINDS OF TRANSPIRATION, worth distinguishing: STOMATAL — through the stomata; by far the greatest, about 90% CUTICULAR — through the cuticle; small, and smaller still when the cuticle is thick LENTICULAR — through the lenticels of woody stems; least of all
More from Transpiration
Assertion (A): A thick cuticle reduces transpiration by acting as a barrier.
Reason (R): Desert plants have large, thin leaves for transpiration.2026Which plant phenomenon resulted in the wilting of the leaves?2026Mention the factor of the phenomenon that is being tested.2026Regulation of the opening and closing of stomata.2025Given below is a picture of a tree. Mention the scientific phenomena occurring in the parts labelled (a), (b) and (c).2025Where are Hydathodes located?2025