If a mutation decreased the radius of a xylem vessel threefold,there would be an 81-fold increase in the volume of liquid moving through the vessel.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to Poiseuille's law, the volume of liquid moving through a vessel is proportional to the fourth power of the vessel radius. Therefore, decreasing the radius by threefold would result in a 81-fold decrease in the volume of liquid moving through the vessel, not an increase.

If a Mutation Decreased the Radius of a Xylem Vessel