Question map
Xylem in the plants are responsible for the transport of:
Explanation
In plants, the xylem is a specialized vascular tissue primarily responsible for the upward transport of water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the leaves and other parts of the plant [2]. This movement is largely a physical process driven by transpiration, where water evaporation from leaves creates a negative pressure that draws the water-mineral solution upward [3]. While the xylem handles water and inorganic solutes, the phloem is responsible for the translocation of organic food, such as sugars produced during photosynthesis [2]. Minerals obtained from the soil are dissolved in water and move through the xylem vessels, which are typically composed of dead, lignified cells that provide structural support [3]. Therefore, the xylem's function encompasses the transport of both water and the essential minerals dissolved within it [1].
Sources
- [1] Science-Class VII . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 10: Life Processes in Plants > Water transport through xylem > p. 148
- [2] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 5: Life Processes > 5.4.2 Transportation in Plants > p. 94
- [3] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 5: Life Processes > Transport of food and other substances > p. 95