The role of the mesophyll layer in leaves is fundamental to the process of photosynthesis. This tissue contains chloroplasts, which are responsible for converting sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into glucose and oxygen. The mesophyll is typically divided into two parts: the palisade mesophyll, which is more dense and contains many chloroplasts, and the spongy mesophyll, which facilitates gas exchange. Together, they optimize light capture and photosynthesis efficiency.