Photosynthesis Occurs in Chloroplast-Rich Mesophyll Cells

Steps:

• Identify leaf layers in transverse section: upper epidermis, palisade mesophyll, spongy mesophyll, lower epidermis, vascular tissues.
• Recall photosynthesis requires chloroplasts, concentrated in mesophyll cells for light capture and CO2 exchange.
• Match options to diagram: G as palisade mesophyll (dense chloroplasts), M as spongy mesophyll (air spaces aid gas diffusion).
• Confirm G and M enable light absorption and gas exchange for photosynthesis.

Why C is correct:

• Mesophyll cells (G and M) contain chloroplasts with chlorophyll, site of light-dependent reactions per photosynthetic equation: 6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: K and L are epidermal cells, lack chloroplasts for protection, not photosynthesis.
• B: E and F are vascular tissues (xylem/phloem), transport water/nutrients, no chloroplasts.
• D: H and J are cuticle or stomata regions, barrier to water loss, no photosynthetic cells.

Final answer: C