Which of the following statements about xylem is true?

The statement that xylem transports water one way only is true because xylem tissue is specifically designed to carry water and dissolved minerals from the roots of a plant upward to the stems and leaves. This unidirectional flow is critical for plant function, as it ensures that water is efficiently delivered where it is needed for processes such as photosynthesis, cooling, and nutrient transport.

Xylem vessels are composed of dead cells, which lack organelles, making them well-suited for the task of water transport. This structure enables a continuous column of water to move through the xylem without interruption. Additionally, unlike phloem, which transports food substances in both directions (from sources to sinks), xylem is solely focused on the upward movement of water. Therefore, the nature of xylem's structure and function confirms that it plays a specific and vital role in plant growth and maintenance by transporting water unidirectionally.