The cells that make up plant leaves are specialized in structure and function to allow them to produce food from sunlight in the process known as photosynthesis. which statement below best summarizes why plant leaves are specialized structures that are generally flat and thin? a) to allow the transportation of nutrient materials into the roots b) to create the large surface area needed to dissipate heat energy c) to maximize the amount of light transmission through the cell layers d) to maximize the ability of the leaf to conserve water needed for photosynthesis