Assertion : Movement of materials inside phloem is bidirectional i.e. it can be both upwards or downwards. Reason : Movement of molecules inside xylem is unidirectional i.e. always upwards.

Long distance bulk movement of substances that occurs through conducting or vascular tissues of plants is called translocation. There are two vascular tissues, xylem and phloem. Xylem translocation is mainly from roots to aerial parts. It passes water with mineral salts, some organic nitrogen and hormones i.e. unidirectional. Phloem translocates organic substances and inorganic solutes first from leaves to all other parts of the plant and storage organs. Storage organs re-export organic nutrients to those parts which require the same as newly formed leaves and fruits i.e it is bidirectional.