Stem section (4.10/11)

Question 1

Describe the structure and function of xylem vessels

Answer 1

transports water and minerals from the roots up the plant stem and into the leaves. Xylem consists of dead cells. The cells that make up the xylem are adapted to their function: They lose their end walls so the xylem forms a continuous, hollow tube.

Question 2

Describe the structure and function of sclerenchyma

Answer 2

composed of dead cells that have heavily thickened walls containing lignin and a high cellulose content (60%–80%), and serves the function ofproviding structural support in plants

Question 3

Describe the structure and function of the phloem

Answer 3

living cells arranged end to end. Unlike xylem, phloem vessels contain cytoplasm, and this goes through the holes in the sieve plates from one cell to the next. Phloem transports sucrose and amino acids up and down the plant.