The letter a indicates a cross-section of an adult tree trunk. the outer layer interacts with the environment. the second layer is labeled c. the next layer is labeled b, and the layer after this is labeled a. apical meristem
lateral meristem
cork cambium
vascular cambium
secondary xylem

Explanation:

In a cross-section of an adult tree trunk, the outer layer that interacts with the environment is called periderm (Layer D). The second layer that follows the periderm is the phloem (Layer C). The next layer is the cambium, which produces phloem cells and xylem cells (Layer B). The secondary xylem follows the vascular cambium (Layer A) and finally, the medulla is located in the middle of the trunk.

The secondary xylem proceeds from the vascular cambium activity. Its cells are orientated in different ways composing the vertical/axial system and the horizontal/transversal system. The secondary xylem is essential to the tree growth in high because of its resistance and the capacity to transport water long distances. Secondary xylem functions are to transport water and minerals through its vessels and tracheids, to provide support and resistance to the plant, and to store reserve substances.

b is the correct answer