GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The waxy covering on plant leaves, young stems, and fruit is called the “cuticle". It is composed of cutin, a wax-like material produced by the plant that is chemically a hydroxy fatty acid. The purpose of this covering is to help the plant retain water.

Detailed explanation-2: -Photosynthesis will not occur due to unavailability of carbon dioxide. Respiration will not occur due to unavailability of oxygen. The leaf will ultimately wilt and die.

Detailed explanation-3: -The waxy coating prevents stomata from wetting and clogging.

Detailed explanation-4: -To reduce water loss the leaf is coated in a waxy cuticle to stop the water vapour escaping through the epidermis. Leaves usually have fewer stomata on their top surface to reduce this water loss.