AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The aerial surfaces of plants are covered by a protective barrier formed by the cutin polyester and waxes, collectively referred to as the cuticle. Plant cuticles prevent the loss of water, regulate transpiration, and facilitate the transport of gases and solutes.

Detailed explanation-2: -The plant cuticle is an extracellular hydrophobic layer that covers the aerial epidermis of all land plants, providing protection against desiccation and external environmental stresses.

Detailed explanation-3: -Plant cuticle is the outermost layer of plants, which covers leaves, fruits, flowers, and non-woody stems of higher plants. It protects plants against drought, extreme temperatures, UV radiation, chemical attack, mechanical injuries, and pathogen/pest infection.

Detailed explanation-4: -The primary function of the cuticle is to prevent evaporation from the leaf surface. Wilting occurs when the rate of loss of water from the plant is greater than the absorption of water in the plant. The process of photosynthesis is not affected by the presence of the cuticle.