What type of substances are primarily conveyed through xylem?

Xylem is a type of tissue in vascular plants primarily responsible for the transport of water and dissolved minerals from the roots to other parts of the plant, such as stems and leaves. This function is essential for plant health and growth, as water is crucial for photosynthesis, nutrient transport, and maintaining cell turgor pressure. The dissolved minerals transported along with water, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, play vital roles in various physiological processes.

In contrast, gases are typically transported through specialized structures called stomata or lenticels, while organic compounds, such as carbohydrates, are primarily transported through phloem, another vascular tissue designed for distributing the products of photosynthesis throughout the plant. Therefore, xylem's primary role in transporting water and dissolved minerals is a fundamental aspect of plant physiology and crucial for sustaining life within the plant.