FFA Floriculture Practice Test

Which of the following is a characteristic feature of a plant in the Xylem?

1. Transports sugars

2. Transports food throughout the plant

3. Transports water and minerals

4. Transports hormones

The correct answer is: Transports water and minerals

The characteristic feature of a plant in the Xylem is its role in transporting water and minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant. The Xylem is specialized for the upward movement of these essential nutrients, which are critical for various physiological processes, including photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, and maintaining plant structure and rigidity. Water transport through the Xylem helps in cooling the plant and enables the upward movement of minerals dissolved in the water, ensuring that they are available for cellular functions throughout the plant. This function is vital for the overall health and growth of the plant, especially in various environmental conditions. In contrast, the transport of sugars is primarily a function of the Phloem, which moves nutrients produced during photosynthesis to different parts of the plant. The same applies to the transport of food, which also falls under the Phloem's responsibilities. Hormones are distributed within the plant through both Xylem and Phloem but are not solely assigned to the Xylem. Hence, the unique and distinguishing role of the Xylem revolves around water and mineral transportation, making option C the correct choice.