The cells of the xylem are dead at functional maturity.This allows

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The fact that xylem cells are dead at maturity allows for the water molecules to form a continuous column from the roots to the shoots without any interruption from organelles or cell metabolism. This is essential for the transport of water and nutrients from the roots to other parts of the plant. Option A, osmosis into the xylem, is not affected by the fact that the cells are dead, as osmosis occurs passively through the cell walls. Option B, transpiration in the stem, occurs due to the evaporation of water from the leaves and is not directly affected by the dead cells in the xylem. Option D, active transport of sugars, occurs in the phloem, not the xylem, and is not affected by the dead or living status of the cells in either tissue.

The Cells of the Xylem Are Dead at Functional Maturity