Constituents of Phloem and Xylem

Xylem and phloem are the two main types of vascular tissues found in plants. They are responsible for the transport of water, minerals, and nutrients throughout the plant body. The constituents of phloem and xylem are as follows:

Xylem:
- Cell walls: Thick
- Cells: Dead
- Function: Transport of water and minerals from roots to leaves
- Direction of Flow: Upward
- Cytoplasm: None
- Permeability: Impermeable to solutes, but permeable to water

Phloem:
- Cell walls: Thin
- Cells: Living
- Function: Transport of organic compounds (sugar) from leaves to other parts of the plant
- Direction of Flow: Bidirectional
- Cytoplasm: Yes
- Permeability: Permeable to solutes and water

Explanation:

Xylem and phloem are both complex tissues made up of different types of cells. Xylem consists of four types of cells: tracheids, vessels, fibers, and parenchyma. Tracheids and vessels are responsible for the transport of water and minerals, while fibers and parenchyma provide support and storage. The thick cell walls of xylem cells are made up of lignin, which makes them impermeable to solutes, but permeable to water.

Phloem, on the other hand, consists of four types of cells: sieve tubes, companion cells, fibers, and parenchyma. Sieve tubes are responsible for the transport of organic compounds, such as sugars, while companion cells provide energy and support for sieve tubes. The thin cell walls of phloem cells are made up of cellulose and hemicellulose, which make them permeable to both solutes and water.

In conclusion, xylem and phloem are both crucial for the survival of plants. Xylem transports water and minerals from roots to leaves, while phloem transports organic compounds from leaves to other parts of the plant. The constituents of phloem and xylem are different, with xylem cells being dead and impermeable to solutes, while phloem cells are living and permeable to both solutes and water.

Q2) What are the constituents of Phloem and Xyle. Select the following features of
Phloem and Xylem.
Features Xylem Phloem
Cell Walls: Thick/Thin
Cells: Living/Dead
Function
Direction of Flow
Cytoplasm: None/Yes
Permeablity