how are water and minerals transported in plant

Water and minerals are transported in plants mainly through the xylem tissue . Here’s the process explained simply:

1. Absorption by Roots

• Roots have root hairs that increase surface area for absorption.

• Water enters by osmosis (movement from soil with higher water concentration into root cells with lower water concentration).

• Minerals are absorbed either by active transport (using energy) or passive transport.

2. Movement through the Root

• Water and minerals move cell-to-cell or through spaces between cells until they reach the xylem vessels in the root.

3. Ascent of Sap (Transport in Xylem)

• Xylem vessels are like long tubes running from roots to stems and leaves.

• Water and dissolved minerals move upward by:

  • Root pressure – a push from water entering the roots.

  • Capillary action – water’s tendency to rise in narrow tubes.

  • Transpiration pull – the main force: when water evaporates from leaves (transpiration), it pulls more water upward due to cohesion (water sticking to water) and adhesion (water sticking to xylem walls).

4. Distribution to Leaves

• The transported water is used in photosynthesis , maintains cell turgidity, and cools the plant by evaporation.

• Minerals are used for making proteins, chlorophyll, DNA, etc.

In short:
Roots absorb → Xylem carries upward → Transpiration pull drives movement → Water & minerals reach leaves and other parts.