Which vascular tissue is responsible for carrying water upward from the roots to all parts of a plant?

Which vascular tissue is responsible for carrying water upward from the roots to all parts of a plant?

• A. Phloem
• B. Xylem
• C. Cortex
• D. Parenchyma

Answer: (B)

The correct choice indicates that xylem is responsible for the upward transport of water in plants. Xylem tissue is specialized for the conduction of water and dissolved minerals from the roots, where it absorbs these resources from the soil, to the leaves and other parts of the plant. This process is crucial for photosynthesis, nutrient distribution, and overall plant hydration. Xylem vessels are typically hollow, allowing for efficient flow, and they are composed of dead cells that have thick, lignified walls, providing structural support as well. The movement of water in the xylem is primarily driven by transpiration, where water evaporates from the stomata of leaves, creating a negative pressure that draws more water up from the roots. In contrast, phloem is primarily responsible for transporting the products of photosynthesis, such as sugars, from the leaves to other parts of the plant. Cortex and parenchyma are types of ground tissue with roles in storage and support, but they do not function in the long-distance transport of water. Understanding the distinct roles of these vascular tissues is essential for grasping how plants function and manage resources.

The correct choice indicates that xylem is responsible for the upward transport of water in plants. Xylem tissue is specialized for the conduction of water and dissolved minerals from the roots, where it absorbs these resources from the soil, to the leaves and other parts of the plant. This process is crucial for photosynthesis, nutrient distribution, and overall plant hydration.

Xylem vessels are typically hollow, allowing for efficient flow, and they are composed of dead cells that have thick, lignified walls, providing structural support as well. The movement of water in the xylem is primarily driven by transpiration, where water evaporates from the stomata of leaves, creating a negative pressure that draws more water up from the roots.

In contrast, phloem is primarily responsible for transporting the products of photosynthesis, such as sugars, from the leaves to other parts of the plant. Cortex and parenchyma are types of ground tissue with roles in storage and support, but they do not function in the long-distance transport of water. Understanding the distinct roles of these vascular tissues is essential for grasping how plants function and manage resources.