Question 1 of 6 • FL-2000310-Biology 1 B
Answer:
Xylem is a vascular tissue responsible for transporting water and minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant. Its structure is specialized for this function because it consists of long, hollow tubes made of dead cells called tracheids and vessel elements. These cells lack cytoplasm and organelles, creating an unobstructed path for water flow. Furthermore, the cell walls are reinforced with lignin, a tough polymer that provides structural support and prevents the tubes from collapsing under the negative pressure created by transpiration.