Question

Which of the following is an example of complex tissue? ____.

• A. Xylem
• B. Phloem
• C. Both A & B
• D. Collenchyma

Hint:

Think of it like a work team. A Simple tissue is a group of identical workers doing the same job. A Complex tissue is a diverse project team (different looking cells) working together toward one common goal (like fluid transport).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Plant tissues are structurally divided into simple tissues (made of only one type of cell) and complex tissues (made of multiple types of cells working together as a unit).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Both Xylem and Phloem are classic examples of complex permanent tissues:
• Xylem consists of four distinct cellular components: tracheids, vessels, xylem parenchyma, and xylem fibers. It primarily transports water and dissolved minerals upward from roots to leaves.
• Phloem consists of sieve tubes, companion cells, phloem parenchyma, and phloem fibers. It transports prepared organic food materials from leaves to other parts of the plant.
• Collenchyma is a simple permanent tissue made up of only one cell type.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Both xylem and phloem are complex tissues, making (C) the correct option.

Answer 2

Complex tissues are defined by being made of more than one type of cell working together, unlike simple tissues which contain only one cell type. Checking each option against this definition will show which ones qualify.

1. Xylem: is built from several distinct cell types, tracheids, vessels, xylem parenchyma, and xylem fibres, all working together to conduct water and provide support, which satisfies the definition of a complex tissue on its own.
2. Phloem: is likewise made of multiple cell types, sieve tubes, companion cells, phloem parenchyma, and phloem fibres, cooperating to transport food, which also independently satisfies the definition of a complex tissue.
3. Both A & B: Since both xylem and phloem individually meet the multiple-cell-type criterion for a complex tissue, and the question allows selecting both together, this option correctly captures that neither is more valid than the other, they are both complex tissues simultaneously.
4. Collenchyma: is made up of just one type of living, elongated cell with unevenly thickened walls, so it does not meet the "more than one cell type" requirement and is classified instead as a simple tissue.

Since two of the individual options both independently qualify as complex tissues, the option that captures both together is the most complete and accurate answer.

Therefore, the correct answer is Both A & B (xylem and phloem).