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CAIE IGCSE Biology 8.1 Xylem and Phloem Questions

Practise recognising xylem and phloem in plant sections, then linking each vascular tissue to transport, support and movement through roots, stems and leaves.

Syllabus
2026–2028
Course
Biology 0610

Exam points

  • label xylem or phloem on root, stem and leaf sections from diagrams or photomicrographs
  • distinguish xylem water and mineral-ion transport from phloem sucrose and amino-acid transport
  • explain xylem support and water flow using lignin, thick walls and hollow vessels

Covered syllabus points

8.1.1—Functions of xylem and phloem: (a)8.1.2—Xylem and phloem positions8.1.3—Relate the structure of xylem vessels

Question 1

[Maximum number: 6]

Question (a)

(a)

Fig. 2.1 is a diagram of a cross-section of a monocotyledonous stem.

Fig. 2.1

Fig. 2.1

Describe how the distribution of vascular bundles in a dicotyledonous stem would differ from the monocotyledonous stem shown in Fig. 2.1.

[ 1 ]

Question (b)

(b)

Fig. 2.2 is an incomplete drawing of a cross-section of a dicotyledonous root.

Complete Fig. 2.2 by:
- sketching the distribution of phloem and xylem
- labelling the phloem, xylem and a root hair.

Fig. 2.2

Fig. 2.2

[ 3 ]

Question (c)

(c)

State two functions of xylem.

[ 2 ]

Question 2

[Maximum number: 3]

Phloem is used to transport sucrose and amino acids in plants. Sucrose is a carbohydrate.

Fig. 2.1 shows a diagram of a plant. The arrows point to circles containing magnified cross-sections of those parts of the plant.

Fig. 2.1

Fig. 2.1

Label the position of the phloem in each of the three magnified sections in Fig. 2.1.
Use a label line and the letter P for each section.

Question 3

[Maximum number: 2]

Fig. 3.3 is a photomicrograph of a cross-section of part of a xerophyte leaf.

Fig. 3.3

Fig. 3.3

Describe two ways the structure labelled B in Fig. 3.3 is adapted for its function.

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