1. Why do plants need a transport system? 2. Which substances need to be moved? 3. How does the transport system work in plants?
Answer (1)
Why do plants need a transport system?
Plants need a transport system to move essential nutrients, water, and food throughout the plant. This internal movement is crucial for survival because it allows all parts of the plant, from the roots to the leaves, to function properly. Without an efficient transport system, plants would not be able to distribute water and nutrients needed for growth, nor would they be able to transport the sugars produced during photosynthesis where they are needed.
Which substances need to be moved?
Water and Minerals: These are absorbed from the soil and need to be transported from the roots to other parts of the plant.
Sugars: Produced during photosynthesis in the leaves, sugars such as glucose need to be transported to other parts of the plant for energy and growth.
Hormones and Other Chemicals: Important for coordinating and regulating growth, development, and responses to environmental changes, these need to be moved to different parts of the plant.
How does the transport system work in plants?
Plants have two main types of transport tissues:
Xylem: This tissue is responsible for the transport of water and dissolved minerals from the roots throughout the plant. Water is absorbed by the roots and moves upwards through the xylem vessels, reaching the leaves where it can be used for photosynthesis and transpiration.
Phloem: The phloem transports sugars and other organic compounds made in the leaves to other parts of the plant where they are needed. This process is called translocation. The movement in the phloem can occur in any direction to deliver nutrients where they are most needed.
Together, these systems ensure the plant can access and distribute the materials it needs to maintain healthy growth and reproduction.
