3.3.3 The Xylem

Question 1

Xylem Vessels Elements: Structure & Function

Answer 1

The functions of xylem tissue in a plant are:
- vascular tissue that transports dissolved minerals and water around the plant
- structural support
- food storage
Xylem tissue is made up 4 cell types that function together:
1 - tracheids (long, narrow, tapered cells with pits)
2 - vessel elements (large thickened cell walls and no end plates when mature)
3 - xylem parenchyma
4 - sclerenchyma cells (fibres and sclereids)
Most of the xylem tissue is made up of tracheids and vessel elements, which are both types of water-conducting cells

Question 2

Relating Structure and Function in Xylem Vessel Elements