What type of plant tissue contains chloroplasts with air spaces around the cells?

The spongy layer, found within the mesophyll of leaves, is characterized by containing chloroplasts as well as air spaces around its cells. This unique structure allows for gas exchange, facilitating the movement of carbon dioxide and oxygen necessary for photosynthesis and respiration. The presence of air spaces in the spongy layer also helps in the efficient diffusion of gases within the leaf, supporting the overall process of photosynthesis.

In contrast, the palisade layer, which is also part of the mesophyll, primarily consists of tightly packed cells that are densely populated with chloroplasts but do not have significant air spaces. Its main function is to capture light energy for photosynthesis. Meristematic tissue, located at the tips of roots and shoots, is responsible for plant growth and does not contain chloroplasts. Dermal tissue serves as a protective layer for the plant and may have cells such as guard cells that are involved in gas exchange but does not typically contain chloroplasts or air spaces like those found in the spongy layer.