Question

A column of water within xylem vessels of tall trees does not break under its weight because of

• A. Dissolved sugar in water
• B. Tensile strength of water
• C. Lignification of xylem vessels
• D. Positive root pressure

Answer 1

The correct option is B Tensile strength of water

Positive root pressure pushes up the water.

Lignification of xylem vessels provide mechanical support.

Dissolved sugar in water reduces it's water potential but has no role in maintaining a column.

Tensile strength of water is its ability to resist the break in column due to forces like the transpiration pull. This is achieved by properties of water like Cohesion and Adhesion.

So the correct answer is 'Tensile strength of water'.