Key Factors of Photosynthesis:LightWaterC02Therefore, adaptations are to maximise the absorption/use of these substances. Large surface area = maximum light absorptionThin, flattened surface = smaller diffusion distance for water/C02 Air space between the cells in the leaf = diffusion of gasesXylem + Phloem tissue = transport water + minerals to leaf, and transport glucose + other products to rest of the plant