2007-03-22 07:24:03 · 12 answers · asked by Sikkle 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Botany
It's to do with getting the maximum amount of light - square corners would over lap more, and also it keeps them robust - square corners would easily get bent when it rains etc. but leaf shaped leaves don't have corners to bend. Try it with a piece of paper - a leaf shaped piece won't bend as easily (hold it like it's attached to a tree!). Did you know that some scientists think that plants with funny shaped leaves like oaks are trying to make their leaves look half eaten so that insects pass them by on the assumption that they are already coverd in insects/catterpillers etc. so they'll have to fight for space!
2007-03-22 07:59:53 · answer #1 · answered by Cathy :) 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The shape they are in is an adaptation made by that specific species of tree. Some are rounder than others, some have more lobes than others; the function of a leaf is to intake light and carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. Square leaves might not work well in that system.
2007-03-22 14:33:14 · answer #2 · answered by txofficer2005 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
An additional theory to all those shown so far is that the tree leaf needs to drain off excess rainwater, which it does with its oval and finger shaped blades. To improve this drainage system, many leaves have an elongated tip, which allows the rain to drip off to the ground.
2007-03-22 16:44:59 · answer #3 · answered by More or less Cosmic 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
because in nature square does not exist ,it is an artificial shape invented by man
all organic shapes are roundish , oval or undulating
2007-03-23 03:47:23 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
They should really be ciruclar...but it all got changed after Noah's Ark ....he lost the template and we are stuck with vareity of shapes...now
2007-03-22 14:30:19 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because they are drawn to the sun's energy at its farthest point
2007-03-22 14:31:43 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
coz theyre too cool a character
2007-03-22 14:27:40 · answer #7 · answered by nendlin 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
cuz most things in nature are round
2007-03-22 14:27:45 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why are pigs feet not cuboid?
2007-03-22 14:27:34 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
in a word......meristematic tissue. oops...that's 2 words.
2007-03-22 15:21:28 · answer #10 · answered by Baked n Blended 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋