Xylem is a vascular tissue in plants that is responsible for the transportation of water and minerals from the roots to the leaves and other parts of the plant. Water transport through the xylem is a passive process that is driven by a combination of physical forces.
The main mechanism of water transport in the xylem is known as the cohesion-tension theory. This theory states that water molecules are cohesive, meaning they stick together due to hydrogen bonding, and that this cohesion allows water to be pulled up through the xylem tubes. As water evaporates from the leaves through small openings called stomata, a negative pressure or tension is created in the xylem, which pulls more water up from the roots.
Another important factor in water transport through the xylem is transpiration. Transpiration is the process by which water evaporates from the leaves, creating a negative pressure in the xylem that helps to pull water up through the plant. This process is driven by the diffusion of water vapor from the leaf to the surrounding air, which creates a gradient that causes water to move up through the xylem.
Overall, water transport through the xylem is a vital process that helps plants maintain their shape, support their structure, and deliver nutrients to their cells. It is an essential mechanism that allows plants to survive and thrive in their environment.
Water transport through the xylem in plants
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