Which one of the following components is expected to be most abundant in the phloem sap of a plant?
Proteins
Organic acids
Sugars
Phosphates
Phloem sap, which is the fluid transported through the phloem tissue in plants, is primarily composed of sugars, particularly sucrose. Sugars such as sucrose are the main transport molecules in the phloem, responsible for delivering energy and nutrients from photosynthetic sources (such as leaves) to non-photosynthetic parts of the plant, including roots, stems, and developing fruits.
While phloem sap may contain small amounts of other components like proteins, organic acids, and phosphates, sugars are the most abundant and crucial component. Proteins may be present in phloem sap, but they are typically found in lower quantities compared to sugars. Organic acids and phosphates are also present in minor amounts.
Overall, the primary function of phloem sap is to transport sugars, particularly sucrose, throughout the plant, supplying energy and nutrients to various parts of the plant.
Hence, the correct answer is option 3.