One of the functions of the xylem is?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for one function of the xylem, the vascular tissue in plants.

Step 2: Explain the concept Xylem is made of vessels, tracheids, fibres and parenchyma. Its main functions are:

• Conducting water and dissolved mineral salts from the roots up to the stem and leaves.
• Providing mechanical support. The walls of xylem vessels and tracheids are thickened with lignin, which makes them strong and rigid. This is why wood, which is mostly xylem, supports trees.

Phloem, on the other hand, conducts manufactured food (sucrose and amino acids) from the leaves to other parts of the plant.

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Strengthening the stem: Correct. Lignified xylem gives the stem support and strength.
• B. Manufacturing food: Wrong. This is done by chlorophyll-containing cells (photosynthesis) in the leaves, not by xylem.
• C. Reducing loss of water: Wrong. This is the job of the cuticle and the guard cells controlling the stomata. Xylem actually carries water.
• D. Conducting manufactured food: Wrong. This is the function of the phloem (translocation).

Step 4: Answer

Tip: Remember "Xylem = X-tra strong, and carries water up." Phloem = food (think "Phloem = Produced food moving around"). Whenever you see "support" and "water conduction" together, think xylem.