Consider statements about plant biology: 1. Xylem transports water and minerals. 2. Phloem transports food. 3. Cambium is responsible for primary growth. Which are correct? MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Xylem is a complex permanent tissue responsible for the unidirectional upward transport of water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the aerial parts of the plant. Phloem is the vascular tissue responsible for the translocation of organic nutrients (primarily sucrose) from sources (leaves) to sinks (roots, fruits), which can be bidirectional. Cambium (vascular and cork) is a lateral meristem responsible for secondary growth (increase in girth); primary growth (increase in length) is driven by apical meristems. Thus, statements 1 and 2 are correct.