In a typical plant, where does photosynthesis primarily occur at the cellular level?

• A. In mitochondria, where glucose is produced from carbon dioxide
• B. In the xylem vessels, where water is converted into sugars
• C. In the nucleus, where light energy is converted into chemical energy
• D. In chloroplasts, especially within the mesophyll cells of leaves

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.
2. Recall that photosynthesis primarily occurs in specialized organelles called chloroplasts, which contain the pigment chlorophyll.
3. Identify that within a typical plant leaf, the mesophyll cells are the main site where chloroplasts are abundant and photosynthesis takes place.
4. Recognize that mitochondria are involved in cellular respiration, not photosynthesis, and that xylem vessels transport water but do not perform photosynthesis.
5. Conclude that the correct location for photosynthesis at the cellular level is in the chloroplasts within the mesophyll cells of leaves.