Question

How did the development of a vascular system contribute to the increase in size of plants?

Short answer

• Plants became able to transport water and nutrients and not be limited by rates of diffusion.
• Vascularization allowed the development of leaves, that increases the efficiency of photosynthesis and provided more energy for plant growth.

Step-by-step solution

Step 1. Introduction

• The vascular system of a plant is the system in which water and nutrients are transported.
• A vascular system of plants is comprised of xylem and phloem.

Step 2. Explanation

• Xylem can be used to transport water and minerals throughout the plant.
• Phloem is responsible for the transportation of proteins and sugars.