Which type of plant tissue is responsible for transporting water and minerals from the roots?

The correct answer is xylem, which plays a crucial role in the transport of water and dissolved minerals from the roots of a plant to its leaves and other aerial parts. Xylem is composed of specialized cells that facilitate this movement through a process known as transpiration. As water evaporates from the stomata in the leaves, it creates a negative pressure that pulls water upward through the xylem vessels, effectively moving it from the roots, where it is absorbed, to the areas in need of hydration and nutrients.

Additionally, xylem is also important for providing structural support to the plant due to the lignin present in its cell walls, allowing it to grow taller and compete effectively for sunlight. This transport mechanism is essential for maintaining plant health, as water is vital for various physiological processes, including photosynthesis.

In contrast, phloem is responsible for transporting nutrients, particularly sugars produced through photosynthesis, from the leaves to other parts of the plant. Dermal tissue serves as a protective outer layer and does not play a direct role in transporting resources. Ground tissue is involved in functions such as storage, photosynthesis, and support, but again, it does not specialize in the transport of water and minerals. Hence, xylem