What is the function of xylem?

Correct option is C

Correct Answer: (C) Conduction of water and minerals

Explanation:

Xylem is a type of vascular tissue in plants that plays a vital role in conducting water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the stems and leaves. This process is crucial for photosynthesis and other metabolic activities.

• Main components of xylem:
• Tracheids and vessels: Conduct water.
• Xylem fibers: Provide mechanical support.
• Xylem parenchyma: Stores food and helps in the lateral conduction of water.
• Xylem's movement is unidirectional, i.e., from roots to other parts of the plant.

Key Points:

·         Xylem is one of the two types of vascular tissues, the other being phloem (which conducts food).

·         Water and minerals are transported via capillary action, cohesion, and adhesion forces within xylem vessels.

·         Xylem cells are dead cells at maturity, providing an efficient pathway for water conduction.

·         This system ensures proper hydration of plant tissues and facilitates photosynthesis in leaves.