If part of the xylem of a young oak tree is destroyed, which of the following functions would it interfere with most?

Question

festinger · Answer

Xylem primarily transport water from the roots to the upper parts of the oak tree. It's destruction will interfere with many processes of the tree, including photosynthesis.

brittanyrolfe · Answer

So, @Festinger is correct in saying that the xylem transports water. In this case, if the xylem is destroyed the tree will not be able to oxidize water because the water will not be able to reach the leaves. This means that the tree will wilt and die. Water, in photosynthesis, is oxidized into oxygen and the hydrogens are used to generate ATP, or energy that is then stored in glucose. Photosynthesis occurs in the thylakoid of leaves. If the water cannot make its way up to the leaves via the xylem, then the tree cannot perform photosynthesis.