The transport through xylem is ________ and transport through phloem is _____

Options

A. both unidirectional
B. both bidirectional
C. bidirectional and unidirectional
D. unidirectional and bidirectional

Answer

To solve the question regarding the direction of transport through xylem and phloem, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Function of Xylem**:
- Xylem is responsible for transporting water and minerals from the roots of the plant to the leaves and other parts of the plant.
- This transport occurs in one direction only, which is from the bottom (roots) to the top (leaves).

2. **Determine the Direction of Transport in Xylem**:
- Since xylem only moves water upwards, we conclude that the transport through xylem is **unidirectional**.

3. **Understand the Function of Phloem**:
- Phloem is responsible for transporting food (sugars and nutrients) that is produced in the leaves to various parts of the plant.
- This transport can occur in multiple directions: from the leaves to the roots and also to other parts of the plant.

4. **Determine the Direction of Transport in Phloem**:
- Since phloem can transport food both upwards and downwards, we conclude that the transport through phloem is **bidirectional**.

5. **Combine the Findings**:
- Based on the analysis, we can summarize that:
- The transport through xylem is **unidirectional**.
- The transport through phloem is **bidirectional**.

### Final Answer:
The transport through xylem is **unidirectional** and transport through phloem is **bidirectional**.

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