What is the primary function of the phloem in plants?

The primary function of the phloem in plants is indeed to transport carbohydrates, including sugars produced during photosynthesis. Phloem is a type of vascular tissue that plays a crucial role in the distribution of these essential nutrients throughout the plant. The carbohydrates are usually in the form of sucrose, which is transported from the leaves—where photosynthesis occurs—to other parts of the plant, including the roots, stems, and growing tissues.

This transport mechanism relies on the living cells within the phloem, which facilitate the movement of resources through a pressure-driven process known as translocation. This is vital for the plant's growth, energy supply, and overall health, as it ensures that all parts of the plant have access to the carbohydrates necessary for cellular respiration and energy production.

In contrast, other options refer to functions that are not associated with the phloem. The process of transporting water is primarily the role of the xylem, while photosynthesis occurs within chloroplasts in the leaf cells, not in the phloem. Storing nutrients is generally a function performed by specialized tissues or organs, such as roots and seeds, rather than the phloem itself. Therefore, the focus on carbohydrate transport distinctly highlights the essential role of the