What is the main function of xylem in plants?

The main function of xylem in plants is to transport water and minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant. Xylem vessels are specialized tubes that effectively carry these essential substances upward, ensuring that all parts of the plant, including leaves, stems, and flowers, receive the necessary hydration and nutrients for growth and metabolic processes. This transportation is crucial for maintaining turgor pressure in plant cells, which helps support its structure and is vital for various physiological processes, including photosynthesis and nutrient uptake.

In contrast, transporting food and nutrients is primarily the role of phloem. Storing energy is not a direct function of xylem; plants typically store energy in the form of carbohydrates in different tissues such as roots or stems. While photosynthesis occurs in the leaves, where light energy is converted into chemical energy, xylem does not play a direct role in this process. Instead, it supports the system by delivering water, which is a necessary component for photosynthesis to occur.