The loss of water from the leaves, however, is a major driving force in how water is transported from the roots to the leaves. Carbon dioxide used in photosynthesis diffuses into leaves through the stomata. The distribution of stomata on surfaces of leaves can be seen in nailpolish peels of leaves. This straight forward laboratory excercise allows students to compare the different types of distribution patterns of stomata on different types of plants. Also, the peels can be used to compare the amount of stomata on the upper and lower surfaces leaves of the same plant.
Procedure Take a fresh or dried leaf.
Apply clear nailpolish to cover approximately one square centimeter of the surface. Allow nailpolish to dry. Use fine forceps to peel the thin layer of dried nailpolish from the surface of the leaf. Place peel on the surface of a standard 1x3 inch glass microscope slide. There is no need to use a cover slip or mounting medium.