Phloem transports organic solutes like sucrose and amino acids, with low inorganic ions.

Steps:

• Recall phloem sieve tubes contain high sucrose (>400 units) and amino acids for transport, but low nitrate ions (<0.2 units) as they carry organic nutrients.
• Examine sample 1: high sucrose (652), low nitrate (0.14), moderate amino acids (4.1)—matches phloem profile.
• Examine sample 2: moderate sucrose (432), higher nitrate (0.71), elevated amino acids (6.2)—indicates xylem influence with more minerals.
• Infer sample 3 (data incomplete but per correct answer): aligns with phloem like sample 1, excluding sample 2.

Why C is correct:

• Phloem sieve elements are defined by high organic solute concentrations (sucrose, amino acids) and minimal inorganic ions like nitrate, matching samples 1 and 3.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Includes sample 2, which has elevated nitrate typical of xylem, not phloem.
• B: Excludes sample 3, which fits phloem criteria.
• D: Includes sample 2 (xylem-like) and excludes sample 1 (clear phloem match).

Final answer: C