What does phloem transport in plants?

• A. Water from roots
• B. Oxygen to roots
• C. Sugars from leaves to roots
• D. Carbon dioxide from air

Answer: (C)

Phloem is a type of tissue in vascular plants that plays a crucial role in the transport of nutrients. Specifically, phloem is responsible for the movement of sugars, primarily sucrose, produced during photosynthesis in the leaves. This process occurs through a phenomenon known as translocation. The sugars are transported from the leaves, where they are synthesized, to various parts of the plant, including the roots, where they can be stored or utilized for growth and energy.

Understanding the role of phloem emphasizes the importance of sugar transport in the overall functioning of the plant, particularly in maintaining energy levels and supporting growth in different tissues. While other processes involve the transport of water and gases within the plant, such as xylem transporting water upward and other gas exchanges through stomata, these do not fall under the function of phloem, which is specifically focused on the distribution of sugars and other organic nutrients.