Which tissue transports water and minerals from the roots to the leaves?

Which tissue transports water and minerals from the roots to the leaves?

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

Answer: (A)

Water and minerals move upward through the plant mainly via xylem, a vascular tissue that forms continuous tubes from roots to leaves. The transport is driven by transpiration pull in the leaves, which creates tension that drags water up the stems; root pressure and capillary action also play supporting roles. Xylem is composed of hollow, lignified cells that are typically dead at maturity, providing a strong, unobstructed pathway for water to travel. In contrast, phloem carries sugars and other organic nutrients, not the mineral- and water-transport system; cortex and pith are ground tissues involved in storage and support rather than long-distance transport.

Water and minerals move upward through the plant mainly via xylem, a vascular tissue that forms continuous tubes from roots to leaves. The transport is driven by transpiration pull in the leaves, which creates tension that drags water up the stems; root pressure and capillary action also play supporting roles. Xylem is composed of hollow, lignified cells that are typically dead at maturity, providing a strong, unobstructed pathway for water to travel. In contrast, phloem carries sugars and other organic nutrients, not the mineral- and water-transport system; cortex and pith are ground tissues involved in storage and support rather than long-distance transport.