The correct option is (a) 1 only.
Explanation
Plants possess a specialized transport system consisting of vascular tissues. These tissues are responsible for the conduction of water, minerals, and food materials throughout the plant body. The two primary types of vascular tissues are Xylem and Phloem.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: Phloem is a complex permanent vascular tissue. Along with xylem, it constitutes the vascular bundle in plants. Its primary function is the conduction of organic food materials.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The transport of water and dissolved minerals from roots to leaves is the function of the Xylem. Phloem is responsible for the transport of photosynthates (food prepared in leaves), such as sucrose, to other parts of the plant (roots, stems, fruits). This process is known as translocation.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The absorption of sunlight is performed by photosynthetic pigments, primarily chlorophyll, located within the chloroplasts of mesophyll cells in leaves. Phloem is a conductive tissue and does not play a direct role in the absorption of light energy.
Key Takeaway
Xylem transports water and minerals unidirectionally from roots to aerial parts, whereas Phloem transports organic food (sugars) bidirectionally from source (leaves) to sink (storage or growing organs).