Maple leaves, palm fronds, pine needles, and grass blades are each different kinds of modified leaves.

Which best describes why all plants need some sort of leaf or other green, leaf-like surface?

to perform photosynthesis
to stand upright
to be eukaryotic
to transport food

to perform photosynthesis

Leaves are essential for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. Without leaves or a green, leaf-like surface, plants would not be able to perform photosynthesis and would not be able to produce their own food.