When a plant is girdled, which will die first, the root or the shoot?

Explanation

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Girdling**: Girdling refers to the process of removing a strip of bark from around the entire circumference of a tree or woody plant. This action disrupts the plant's vascular system.

2. **Identifying the Vascular Tissues**: The bark contains the phloem, which is responsible for transporting nutrients (especially sugars) from the leaves to the rest of the plant, including the roots. The xylem, which is located beneath the phloem, transports water and minerals from the roots to the leaves.

3. **Effects of Girdling on Phloem**: When the bark is removed, the phloem is also removed. This means that the sugars produced in the leaves cannot be transported down to the roots. As a result, the roots are deprived of essential nutrients.

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