AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Xylem is the specialised tissue of vascular plants that transports water and nutrients from the plant–soil interface to stems and leaves, and provides mechanical support and storage. The water-conducting function of xylem is one of the major distinguishing features of vascular plants.

Detailed explanation-2: -The xylem distributes water and dissolved minerals upward through the plant, from the roots to the leaves. The phloem carries food downward from the leaves to the roots. Xylem cells constitute the major part of a mature woody stem or root.

Detailed explanation-3: -The basic function of xylem is to transport water from roots to stems and leaves, but it also transports nutrients. The word xylem is derived from the Ancient Greek word (xylon), meaning “wood"; the best-known xylem tissue is wood, though it is found throughout a plant.

Detailed explanation-4: -Xylem transports and stores water and water-soluble nutrients in vascular plants. Phloem is responsible for transporting sugars, proteins, and other organic molecules in plants.

Detailed explanation-5: -The tension created by transpiration “pulls” water in the plant xylem, drawing the water upward in much the same way that you draw water upward when you suck on a straw. Cohesion (water sticking to each other) causes more water molecules to fill the gap in the xylem as the top-most water is pulled toward the stomata.