Question

What does xylem do in a plant?

transport food
transport water
prevent water loss
perform photosynthesis

Answer 1

Xylem primarily functions to **transport water** and dissolved minerals from the roots of the plant to the rest of the plant, including the leaves and stems. It plays a crucial role in supporting the plant and maintaining its water and nutrient supply.

The other options you mentioned are associated with different parts of the plant:
- **Transport food** is primarily the function of phloem, which moves sugars produced during photosynthesis from the leaves to other parts of the plant.
- **Prevent water loss** relates more to structures like stomata and the cuticle on leaves, which help in regulating water loss.
- **Perform photosynthesis** is carried out by chloroplasts in the leaves, where light energy is converted into chemical energy.

So, the correct answer regarding the function of xylem is that it **transport water**.