Which vascular tissue is primarily involved in the transport of water within plants?

Which vascular tissue is primarily involved in the transport of water within plants?

• A. Phloem
• B. Xylem
• C. Tracheids
• D. Laticifers

Answer: (B)

The vascular tissue that is primarily involved in the transport of water within plants is xylem. Xylem consists of specialized cells that facilitate the movement of water and dissolved minerals from the roots through the stem and into the leaves. The structure of xylem allows for the efficient transport of water due to its composition, which includes vessel elements and tracheids. These cells create a continuous network that enables water to flow upward through capillary action and transpiration pull. In contrast to xylem, phloem's main function is the transport of organic nutrients, particularly sugars, produced during photosynthesis. Tracheids are a type of cell found in xylem, contributing to water transport, but they are not a separate tissue type and are part of the overall functionality of xylem. Laticifers are involved in the production and transport of latex and other defensive secretions in certain plants, but they do not have a role in water transport.

The vascular tissue that is primarily involved in the transport of water within plants is xylem. Xylem consists of specialized cells that facilitate the movement of water and dissolved minerals from the roots through the stem and into the leaves. The structure of xylem allows for the efficient transport of water due to its composition, which includes vessel elements and tracheids. These cells create a continuous network that enables water to flow upward through capillary action and transpiration pull.

In contrast to xylem, phloem's main function is the transport of organic nutrients, particularly sugars, produced during photosynthesis. Tracheids are a type of cell found in xylem, contributing to water transport, but they are not a separate tissue type and are part of the overall functionality of xylem. Laticifers are involved in the production and transport of latex and other defensive secretions in certain plants, but they do not have a role in water transport.