The xylem is the tissue in vascular plants that carries water and minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant. It also gives mechanical support to the plant.
Here’s how it functions:
- Water absorption:
Roots absorb water and minerals from the soil through root hairs. - Upward transport:
The xylem forms long, continuous tubes made of dead, hollow cells (vessels and tracheids).
Water moves upward through these tubes by capillary action, root pressure, and transpiration pull. - Transpiration pull:
As water evaporates from the leaves during transpiration, it creates a suction force that pulls more water up from the roots through the xylem. - Distribution:
The transported water and minerals reach all plant parts — leaves for photosynthesis, flowers for growth, and fruits for development. - Support:
The thick, lignified walls of xylem cells give strength and rigidity, helping the plant stand upright.
In short, the xylem moves water and minerals upward and provides structural support to the plant.