Question

How water and minerals are transported in plants?

Answer 1

1. Water and minerals are transported through the soil to the leaves through xylem cells. The xylem cells of roots, stems, and leaves are interconnected to form a conducting channel reaching all plant parts. The root cells take ions from the soil. This creates a difference between the concentration of ions in roots and soil. Therefore, there is a steady movement of water into the xylem.
2. Osmosis generates osmotic pressure, and water and minerals are transported from one cell to another. Transpiration causes continuous water loss. Because of transpiration, a suction pressure is created, and water is drawn into the root xylem cells. Root pressure for transportation in plants is more important at night, while during the day, the transpiration pull becomes the major driving force.