What is the term for the movement of carbohydrates from leaves to growing parts of a plant?

The movement of carbohydrates from the leaves to other growing parts of a plant is referred to as translocation. This process is essential for transporting the sugars produced during photosynthesis from the leaves—where photosynthesis occurs—to areas of growth, such as stems and roots, where the energy and building blocks are needed for development and growth.

Translocation primarily occurs through specialized vascular tissues known as phloem. As the sugars travel through the phloem, they can be utilized immediately for metabolic processes or stored for later use, ensuring that all parts of the plant receive the energy needed for their growth and functions.

The other terms mentioned in the choices are related to different processes within plant biology. Photosynthesis is the process through which plants convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. Respiration refers to the process of breaking down glucose to release energy for cellular activities. Transpiration is the process of water vapor loss from plant surfaces, primarily through stomata, which is crucial for water regulation and nutrient transport but does not directly involve carbohydrate movement.