Answer:
Once water is in the xylem, it travels upwards - against the force of gravity - towards the rest of the plant. Water is able to move against gravity due to two forces: tension and cohesion. Tension is a 'sucking force' which is created when water evaporates from leaves (transpiration), pulling more water into the leaf.
Step-by-step explanation:
Movement of Water and Minerals in the Xylem. Most plants obtain the water and minerals they need through their roots. The path taken is: soil -> roots -> stems -> leaves. The minerals (e.g., K+, Ca2+) travel dissolved in the water (often accompanied by various organic molecules supplied by root cells).