Visualizing the distribution of elements within barley leaves by energy dispersive X‐ray image maps (EDX maps)

Abstract
X‐ray image maps of transverse sections of barley leaf blades were compared with individual X‐ray emission spectra from vacuoles of barley leaf mesophyll, epidermis and parenchymatous bundle sheath cells. Both forms of X‐ray analysis revealed distinct patterns in element distribution within the leaf blade. Calcium and Cl predominated within the epidermal cell vacuoles whilst P appeared mainly in the mesophyll cell layer. Apparent accumulation of S and Mg within the bundle sheath cell vacuoles is discussed in relation to xylem unloading and sulphur assimilation.