Chapter 22, Problem 2A

Summary Introduction

To write:

The difference between xylem and phloem.

Introduction:

Along with cell wall in plant cell, there are many different cells that have specific function and form tissue. There are three types of cells that form the plant tissues. They function together to provide food production and storage; give flexibility, support, and strength to the plants. Parenchyma is the most flexible and thin cell found in the plants. Similarly, the transportation of nutrients, water, and other substances in plants are carried out by tissue like xylem and phloem they are considered as vascular tissue.

Explanation of Solution

Xylem is made of dead cells while phloem is made of living cells. Xylem is a complex tissue that is involved in the transportation of water and other nutrients to the plant while phloem is the tissue involved in the transportation of food and organic matters. The xylem tissue is composed of tracheids and fibers while the phloem tissue is composed of fibers, sieve cells, sieve tubes, phloem parenchyma, and companion cells. The xylem tissue is found in the centre of the vascular bundle while the phloem tissue is found in the outer cover of vascular bundle.

Conclusion

The xylem tissue is made of dead cells and involved in the transportation of water and other nutrients. It is composed of fibers and tracheids. The phloem tissue is made of living cells, and is involved in transportation of food and organic materials.