Summary
Transport in flowering plants involves the movement of water, minerals, and food through specialized tissues called xylem and phloem. Xylem — conducts water and dissolved minerals from the roots to all parts of the plant. Example: Xylem vessels are made up of hollow, dead cells that form a continuous tube. Phloem — carries food made in the leaves by photosynthesis to other cells of the plant. Example: Phloem consists of living cells called sieve tubes, which are connected by sieve plates. Transpiration — the process of water movement through a plant and its evaporation from aerial parts. Example: Water is lost from the leaves through stomata, creating a transpiration pull. Translocation — the process of transporting manufactured food from the leaves to other parts of the plant. Example: Sugars are moved from the leaves to growing roots and fruits via the phloem.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Xylem: Conducts water and minerals from roots to leaves.
- Phloem: Transports food from leaves to other parts of the plant.
- Transpiration: Evaporation of water from plant leaves.
- Translocation: Movement of food substances in phloem.
Common Confusions
- Confusing xylem and phloem functions.
- Misunderstanding the role of transpiration in water movement.
Typical Exam Questions
- What is the role of xylem in plants? Answer: Xylem conducts water and dissolved minerals from the roots to all parts of the plant.
- How does transpiration help in the movement of water? Answer: Transpiration creates a pull that draws water up through the xylem from the roots.
- What is translocation and where does it occur? Answer: Translocation is the movement of food substances from leaves to other parts of the plant, occurring in the phloem.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of the structure and function of xylem and phloem.
- The process and importance of transpiration and translocation in plants.