[Campbell Biology P.812] What is the main functional difference between xylem and phloem in ... | Practice Question
What is the main functional difference between xylem and phloem in vascular plants?
A: Xylem transports sugars from leaves, while phloem transports water from roots.
B: Xylem conducts water and dissolved minerals upward, while phloem transports sugars from photosynthesis.
C: Xylem provides mechanical support only, while phloem is involved in gas exchange.
D: Xylem forms the outer protective layer, while phloem forms the inner core.
Explanation
The text states that xylem conducts water and dissolved minerals upward from roots into shoots, while phloem transports sugars, the products of photosynthesis, from where they are made to where they are needed or stored.