>> In particular, the purpose of leaves is to absorb as much sunlight as
>> possible. Given that task, you would /expect/ leaves to evolve to be
>> huge flat sheets.
>
> Huge flat sheets would mean that only the outher layers get sunlight.
> Inner branches might just as well commit suicide immediately.

Exhibit A:
http://momsrecipes.nielsonpi.com/images113/Rhubarb3.jpg

Exhibit B:
http://i.pbase.com/u38/kayakbiker/upload/31926440.BananaLeafUnbrella.jpg

Exhibit C:
http://www.vagabondjourney.com/2008-1/08-2208-large-leaf-costa-rica.jpg

Clearly big leaves are not a suicidal adaptation...

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