If a plant is unable to transport food from leaves to roots, which tissue is malfunctioning?
(a) Xylem
(b) Phloem
(c) Epidermis
(d) Sclerenchyma
(b) Phloem
Explanation: Phloem is the complex permanent tissue responsible for transporting food prepared in the leaves to different parts of the plant, including the roots. This process is called translocation. Sieve tubes carry food, while companion cells help sieve tubes in this transport. Therefore, if food cannot be transported from leaves to roots, the phloem tissue is malfunctioning. Xylem transports water and minerals, while epidermis and sclerenchyma perform protective and supporting functions, respectively.