Apoplastic pathway is observed in

Options

A. Lateral conduction of water
B. Ascent of sap
C. Movement of organic solutes
D. 1 and 2

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Apoplastic Pathway**:
- The apoplastic pathway refers to the movement of water and minerals through the plant, specifically through the cell walls and intercellular spaces, without crossing the cell membranes.

2. **Comparison with Symplastic Pathway**:
- In contrast to the apoplastic pathway, the symplastic pathway involves the movement of water and solutes through the cytoplasm of cells, connected by plasmodesmata.

3. **Transport Mechanism**:
- The apoplastic pathway primarily facilitates the transport of water and minerals from the roots to the shoots of the plant via the xylem vessels.

4. **Velocity of Transport**:
- The apoplastic pathway has a higher transport velocity compared to the symplastic pathway, making it a more efficient means of transporting water and nutrients.

5. **Identifying the Correct Option**:
- The question asks where the apoplastic pathway is observed. The correct context for the apoplastic pathway is in the conduction of water and minerals, specifically in the xylem.
- Other options provided (ascent of sap, movement of organic solutes) do not accurately describe the apoplastic pathway, as ascent of sap typically refers to the movement of water and nutrients through xylem vessels, and organic solutes are moved via phloem (not xylem).

6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question "Apoplastic pathway is observed in" is the conduction of water and minerals through the xylem.