Answer:

In leaves, the ground tissue consists of thin-walled chloroplast-containing cells called mesophyll. The mesophyll plays a vital role in the photosynthesis process and is responsible for the green color of leaves.

Explanation:

1. Ground Tissue in Leaves:
The ground tissue of leaves is responsible for various functions, including photosynthesis, storage, and support. It is composed of different types of cells that contribute to the overall structure and function of the leaf.

2. Mesophyll:
The mesophyll is the ground tissue found in the interior of leaves. It is made up of parenchyma cells that contain chloroplasts, the organelles responsible for photosynthesis. These cells are thin-walled and closely packed together, allowing for efficient gas exchange and light absorption.

3. Types of Mesophyll Cells:
There are two types of mesophyll cells found in leaves:

- Palisade Mesophyll: This layer is located on the upper side of the leaf and consists of elongated, columnar cells. These cells are tightly packed and contain numerous chloroplasts, making them highly efficient in capturing light energy for photosynthesis.

- Spongy Mesophyll: This layer is located beneath the palisade mesophyll and is composed of loosely arranged cells. These cells have irregular shapes and contain fewer chloroplasts compared to the palisade mesophyll. The air spaces between the spongy mesophyll cells allow for gas exchange, facilitating the diffusion of carbon dioxide and oxygen.

4. Function of Mesophyll:
The mesophyll is primarily responsible for the process of photosynthesis. The chloroplasts within the mesophyll cells contain chlorophyll, the pigment that captures light energy. Through photosynthesis, the mesophyll cells convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, utilizing the energy from sunlight.

5. Importance of Chloroplasts:
Chloroplasts are specialized organelles found in plant cells that are crucial for photosynthesis. They contain the pigment chlorophyll, which absorbs light energy and converts it into chemical energy. The presence of chloroplasts in mesophyll cells allows for efficient photosynthesis, enabling plants to produce organic compounds necessary for growth and survival.

In conclusion, the ground tissue in leaves consists of thin-walled chloroplast-containing cells called mesophyll. These cells, specifically the palisade and spongy mesophyll, are responsible for photosynthesis and play a vital role in capturing light energy, converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose, and facilitating gas exchange within the leaf.