Function of stem is -

Options

A. To have leaves and branches
B. Conduction of water and minerals
C. Conduction of water and storage of food
D. Most important vegetative organs for photosynthesis

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the Structure of the Stem**: The stem consists of nodes and internodes. Nodes are the parts of the stem where leaves and branches arise, while internodes are the segments between the nodes.

2. **Primary Functions of the Stem**:
- **Support**: The stem provides structural support to the plant, acting like a skeleton that holds the plant upright.
- **Conduction**: The stem is responsible for the conduction of water, minerals, and nutrients throughout the plant. Water and minerals are transported from the roots to the leaves through the xylem, while food (sugars) produced in the leaves is transported to other parts of the plant through the phloem.

3. **Storage of Food**: While the primary function of the stem is conduction, it can also serve a secondary function of storing food, especially in certain plants where stems are modified for storage (like tubers).

4. **Conclusion**: Among the functions of the stem, the most significant and primary function is the conduction of water and minerals. Therefore, the correct answer is that the function of the stem is primarily to conduct water and minerals.

**Final Answer**: The primary function of the stem is to conduct water and minerals (Option 2).

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