B3.2 Transport in Plants [IB Biology SL/HL]

What special tissue is designed for transporting substances in plants?

Vascular tissue

What is the function of xylem in plants?

The xylem carries water from the roots to the shoots.

What are the two forces that aid the movement of water in the xylem?

Cohesion and adhesion.

What phenomenon helps pull water up the xylem against gravity?

Transpirational pull.

What is lignin and what is its function in the xylem?

Lignin is a polysaccharide that provides structural support and prevents the collapse of the xylem.

What do the pits on the xylem allow for?

They allow water to pass between the xylem and phloem.

In a transverse section of a dicot stem, where is the xylem located in relation to the phloem?

The xylem is located towards the center, while the phloem is towards the periphery.

What is the role of the epidermis in a plant's stem?

The epidermis provides protection, waterproofing, and helps keep substances within the stem.

What is the primary function of the pith in a plant stem?

The pith provides bulk to the stem.

What structure increases the surface area for water absorption in plant roots?

Root hairs.