Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-10 02:57 · grounding rag
Model Answer
Transport of Water and Minerals in Plants:
Water and minerals are transported in plants through xylem — a component of vascular tissue.
Process:
- Water and dissolved minerals are absorbed from the soil by root hair cells through osmosis and active transport.
- They move from root cells into the xylem vessels.
- The transpiration pull (loss of water vapour through stomata in leaves) creates a suction force that pulls water upward continuously through the xylem.
- This creates a continuous column of water from roots to leaves — called the transpiration stream.
Key points:
- Xylem is made of dead cells forming hollow tubes — suited for water conduction.
- Minerals dissolved in water are carried along with it through xylem.
- Transpiration pull is the main driving force for upward movement of water.
Source: Life Processes, Chapter 5, Vascular Tissue section
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Explanation
- Examiners expect: xylem → root absorption → transpiration pull → upward movement — these are the four scoring steps.
- Mention that xylem carries both water and minerals (not just water).
- "Transpiration pull" is the key term — must be used.
- Do NOT confuse with phloem (which carries food/sucrose). If the question were about both, phloem would need separate treatment — here only water and minerals are asked, so xylem is the focus.
- Avoid long introductions; get to the mechanism quickly in board exams.