[Campbell Biology P.848] Which statement correctly describes the process of translocation in... | Practice Question

Which statement correctly describes the process of translocation in plants?

  • A: Translocation is the unidirectional transport of water and minerals from roots to leaves via the xylem.
  • B: Translocation refers to the movement of photosynthates from sugar sources to sugar sinks primarily through sieve-tube elements.
  • C: Phloem sap is primarily composed of water and mineral ions, similar to xylem sap.
  • D: Sugar sinks are typically mature leaves that produce excess sugars.

Explanation

Translocation is defined as the transport of the products of photosynthesis photosynthates , mainly sugars, from 'sources' e.g., mature leaves to 'sinks' e.g., root tips or growing parts via the phloem's sieve-tube elements. The flow is often bidirectional, contrasting with xylem's unidirectional flow.