Tension created by transpiration pulls on entire columns of water that fill xylem tubes because water has ____.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cohesion refers to the tendency of water molecules to stick to each other through hydrogen bonding. This cohesion creates a continuous column of water in the xylem tubes, allowing it to be pulled up by tension caused by transpiration. Ionic and covalent bonds do not create the same type of cohesion that hydrogen bonds do, and pressure caused by compression or osmotic pressure would not account for the movement of water up the plant.

Tension Created by Transpiration Pulls on Entire Columns of Water