The difference between xylem and phloem is(a)Xylem transports the food prepared by leaves whereas phloem transports water and minerals absorbed by roots. (b) Xylem transports water and minerals absorbed by roots whereas phloem transports food prepared by roots. (c)Xylem transports food, water, and minerals whereas phloem stores food. (d)Xylem stores food whereas phloem transports food, water, and minerals.

The correct answer is (b) Xylem transports water and minerals absorbed by roots whereas phloem transports food prepared by the plant.

In plants, xylem and phloem are two types of vascular tissues that have distinct functions:

Xylem: It is responsible for the transport of water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant. This process is primarily upward, from roots to leaves.

Phloem: It transports the food prepared by the plant, mainly in the form of sugars, from the leaves (where photosynthesis occurs) to various parts of the plant. This movement can be in multiple directions, depending on where the food is needed.

The other options you mentioned mix up the roles of these two types of tissues, or assign functions to them that are not accurate. For example, xylem does not transport food, and phloem does not transport water and minerals. Also, neither of these tissues is primarily used for storing food.