Which elements of xylem tissue form interconnected water-conducting channels?

The Correct Answer Is: (d) Vessels and Tracheids
Explanation:
Xylem is responsible for the conduction of water and minerals from roots to different parts of the plant. Vessels and tracheids are the primary components that form interconnected water-conducting channels.
Vessels are long tube-like structures made of multiple vessel elements joined end to end, forming an efficient pipeline for water conduction.
Tracheids are elongated, tapering cells with pits that allow water to pass between them. They provide additional support and help in water conduction.
Together, these structures create a continuous water transport system from roots to leaves.

Information Booster:
Vessels are more efficient in water conduction than tracheids due to their wide lumen and continuous structure.
Tracheids provide structural support in addition to conducting water, especially in gymnosperms, where vessels are absent.
Xylem is a complex tissue consisting of four components: vessels, tracheids, xylem fibres, and xylem parenchyma.
Xylem fibres provide mechanical strength but do not conduct water.
Xylem parenchyma helps in storage and lateral conduction of water.
Water transport in xylem is passive and occurs due to transpiration pull, capillary action, and root pressure.
Gymnosperms rely mainly on tracheids for water conduction as vessels are absent in them.
Additional Knowledge:
Vessels and Xylem fibres : Xylem fibres provide support.
Tracheids and Xylem fibres : Tracheids conduct water.

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