Question 1: Define Xylem and explain its primary function in plants.

Answer: Xylem is a type of vascular tissue in plants responsible for transporting water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the leaves.

Question 2: Describe the structure of Phloem and how it differs from Xylem.

Answer: Phloem is composed of sieve tubes and companion cells, and it transports organic nutrients like sugars. Unlike Xylem, Phloem is living tissue and has sieve plates for transport.

Question 3: Explain how water moves up through the Xylem vessels in a plant.

Answer: Water moves up through Xylem by a process called transpiration pull, which occurs when water evaporates from the leaves, creating a negative pressure that pulls water upward from the roots.

Question 4: Calculate the rate of water transport if a plant's Xylem transports 2.4 litres of water in 4 hours. Express your answer in litres per hour.

Answer: 0.6 litres per hour

Question 5: Identify the main factors that affect the efficiency of water transport through Xylem.

Answer: Factors include the diameter of Xylem vessels, the rate of transpiration, environmental humidity, and the integrity of the vessel walls.

Question 6: Which of the following best describes the role of Phloem in plants?

Answer: Transporting organic nutrients from leaves to other parts

Question 7: Fill in the blank: The process of water movement from roots to leaves via Xylem is called __________.

Answer: transpiration

Question 8: Describe an experiment that could demonstrate the movement of water through Xylem in a plant. Include the main variables involved.

Answer: A common experiment involves adding a coloured dye to the water in a beaker and placing a cut stem of a plant into the dye. Over time, the dye travels up the stem through Xylem vessels. Variables include the dye concentration, temperature, and type of plant used.

Question 9: Why is the integrity of Xylem vessel walls important for efficient water transport?

Answer: Healthy vessel walls prevent leaks and blockages, ensuring continuous water flow and preventing cavitation which can disrupt transport.

Question 10: In what ways does the structure of Phloem facilitate the transport of sugars?

Answer: Phloem contains sieve tubes with sieve plates that allow for the movement of sugars. The companion cells provide metabolic support, enabling efficient transport over long distances.

Question 11: Discuss the significance of Xylem and Phloem in the overall health and growth of a plant.

Answer: Xylem and Phloem are essential for transporting water, minerals, and nutrients, which are vital for photosynthesis, growth, and development. Their efficient functioning ensures the plant's survival, structural integrity, and ability to respond to environmental changes.