Question

Which of the following is correct about water transport in vascular plants?

• A. Water moves upwards through xylem.
• B. Water moves upwards through phloem.
• C. Water moves upwardly and downwardly through xylem.
• D. Water moves upwardly and downwardly through phloem.

Answer 1

The correct option is A Water moves upwards through xylem.

Xylem is the water conducting tissue of the plant whereas phloem is the food conducting tissue. Transport through phloem is multidirectional as it conducts organic food to all parts of the plant whereas in xylem it is always unidirectional i.e. from the soil through the roots to the aerial parts of the plant. Hence, water moves only up through xylem and not downward.