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💬 Think about it
A coconut tree's roots are at the bottom, but its leaves are far up high. How does water climb all the way up? And how does food made in leaves reach the roots? Let us follow these inside paths.
Why do plants need to transport things inside them?
- Roots take up water and minerals from the soil.
- Minerals are important nutrients for plant growth.
- Water and minerals must reach all parts of the plant.
- Food made in leaves must also travel to other parts.
Example:
A tall coconut tree must carry water from its roots all the way up to its highest leaves.
Water and minerals
Food
Taken up by the roots
Made in the leaves
Move upward to all parts
Move to all parts, even roots
Carried by the xylem
Carried by the phloem
Important Points
- Roots take up water and minerals from soil.
- Plants transport both water and food inside them.
Important Definitions
- Minerals — important nutrients present in the soil that plants need for their growth.
