Question

Give an account of structure and function of xylem

Answer 1

Xylem is the specialised tissue of vascular plants that transports water and nutrients from the plant–soil interface to stems and leaves, and provides mechanical support and storage. The water‐conducting function of xylem is one of the major distinguishing features of vascular plants. Water is the primary solvent for plant nutrition and metabolism, and is essential for photosynthesis, turgor and for transport of minerals, hormones and other signalling molecules. The water‐conducting xylem cells provide an internal hydrophobic surface facilitating water transport as well as mechanical strength. The xylem cells also support the weight of the water transported upward in the plant and the weight of the plant itself. For many trees, xylem is wood, which has been an essential raw material for human societies since antiquity, providing structural material, fuel and fibre. Modification of xylem by genetic engineering may lead to better energy sources, improved raw materials and wood products.

Answer 2

Xylem is a long,hollow,life-like structure in the stem that connects the root to the leaves.It helps to transport water and mineral from the roots to leaves in the plant.