What structure in trees is responsible for conducting water and nutrients upward?

The xylem is the specialized tissue in trees responsible for conducting water and dissolved minerals from the roots upward to the rest of the plant, including the leaves and branches. This process is essential for maintaining the plant's hydration and nutrient supply, which supports photosynthesis and overall growth.

Xylem cells are designed to facilitate this transport; they are typically hollow tubes that allow water to move efficiently from the roots through the trunk and into the foliage. Additionally, xylem not only transports water but also provides structural support to the tree due to its lignified cell walls.

While both phloem and the root system play crucial roles in the overall functioning of a tree, phloem is primarily responsible for the transportation of sugars and organic nutrients produced through photosynthesis. The root system anchors the tree and absorbs water and nutrients from the soil, but the actual upward movement of these resources is handled by the xylem. Bark serves as the protective outer layer of the tree, protecting the inner tissues but does not play a direct role in the transport of water and nutrients.