Transpiration is an effective mechanism for moving water to the leaves in 300-foot-tall trees because of _______.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Transpiration involves the evaporation of water from the leaves, which creates a pulling force that draws water up through the xylem from the roots to the leaves. The cohesive strength of water, which holds water molecules together, allows this pulling force to be transmitted up the entire height of a tree, even up to 300 feet tall. The cellulose and lignin in the walls of xylem cells also provide structural support for this process, but the cohesive strength of water is the most important factor in allowing transpiration to occur in such tall trees. The force of gravity and the ability of plants to open and close stomata are also important factors in plant water transport, but they are not as directly related to the effectiveness of transpiration in tall trees. The ability of the central vacuole to release water is not directly related to transpiration or plant water transport.

Transpiration Is an Effective Mechanism for Moving Water to the Leaves