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Multiple Choice
The phenomenon responsible for maintaining the upward movement of water through vessels in a tree is __________.
A
hydration shells
B
surface tension
C
specific heat
D
cohesion
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of cohesion: Cohesion refers to the attraction between molecules of the same substance. In the context of water movement in plants, it is the force that holds water molecules together.
Recognize the role of cohesion in plant physiology: In trees, cohesion helps maintain the continuous column of water within the xylem vessels, allowing water to move upward from the roots to the leaves.
Differentiate cohesion from other phenomena: Hydration shells involve water molecules surrounding ions or molecules, surface tension is the elastic tendency of a fluid surface, and specific heat is the amount of heat required to change the temperature of a substance. None of these directly explain the upward movement of water in plants.
Consider the process of transpiration: As water evaporates from the leaves, it creates a negative pressure that pulls water upward through the xylem. Cohesion ensures that the water column does not break during this process.
Apply the concept to the problem: Given the options, cohesion is the correct phenomenon responsible for maintaining the upward movement of water through vessels in a tree, as it keeps the water molecules connected and moving as a unit.