This plant is Macaranga hypoleuca. Compare its leaves to
those of the plants around it.
What is the relationship between
the leaves of this plant,
photosynthesis, and competition
with neighboring plants?

Answer and Explanation:

The magnitude of the foliar area defines the capacity of the plant in intercepting photosynthetic radiation, which is the principal source of energy used by plants for the tissues and food elaboration. The bigger the foliar area is the better photosynthetic capabilities the plant has. Variations in the size of leaves correspond to variation in the amount of solar radiation intercepted. The spatial arrangement of leaves in the whole plant is also related to the individual strategy for intercepting radiation.  

The plant shown in the picture seems to have a very developed aerial part, growth in height, long stems, and huge leaves with an alternate arrangement. They probably become important competitors to their neighbors because of their size. Competition is probably related to space, but considering that all the species that are near this plant are much smaller, competition might be related to space in the ground and not necessarily competition for aerial space .

heat a spark and oxygen

this is a good question! i'll do some research and come back when i have the answer!