Final answer:
The ground tissue of the leaf involved in photosynthesis is known as mesophyll. It utilizes sunlight to synthesize sugars through a process called photosynthesis, converting CO₂ and H₂O into glucose and oxygen.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ground tissue of the leaf is called mesophyll and uses the energy in sunlight to synthesize sugars in a process known as photosynthesis. The mesophyll contains cells with a green pigment known as chlorophyll, which is crucial for photosynthesis. During this process, carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) combine using solar energy to create glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆), a type of sugar, and oxygen.
Plants can then use this glucose for energy or convert it to other carbohydrates such as starch or cellulose. While starch serves as stored energy, cellulose provides structural support to the plant. This illustrates the ability of plants to produce their own food source through photosynthesis, a capability that distinguishes them from animals.