What could happen if a plant’s phloem does not work correctly?

Select one:
a. Photosynthesis will not take place.
b. The plant might be short of water.
c. The plant might be short of food.
d. The plant will not be able to dissolve minerals.

http://www.biology4kids.com/files/plants_xylemphloem.html

So C possibly?

The correct answer is c. The plant might be short of food.

Explanation:
Phloem is a tissue in plants responsible for transporting organic nutrients, such as sugars and amino acids, from the leaves to other parts of the plant. If the phloem does not work correctly, it can result in a disruption of the transport of these nutrients.

When the phloem is not functioning properly, the plant may not be able to distribute the sugars produced during photosynthesis to other parts of the plant, such as the roots, fruits, or flowers. This can lead to a shortage of food and energy for the plant, impacting its growth, development, and overall health.

On the other hand, the options a, b, and d are not correct because:

a. Photosynthesis is a process that occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, primarily in the leaves. The phloem, although important for transporting nutrients, is not directly involved in the actual process of photosynthesis.

b. While water transportation is primarily the role of the xylem tissue in plants, a dysfunction in the phloem would not directly result in a shortage of water for the plant. The xylem ensures that water moves from the roots to the rest of the plant.

d. The dissolution of minerals primarily occurs in the soil and is facilitated by processes such as root absorption. It is not a direct function of the phloem tissue.

Right!