Question

Describe an experiment to demonstrate the path of the ascent of sap through the xylem.

Answer 1

Water movement in plants:

1. Water is absorbed by the plants from the soil.
2. Water is absorbed by root hairs present on roots.
3. It moves from root to xylem and reaches the top of the plant.

Experiment to show that ascent of sap moves through xylem:

Requirements:

1. balsam plant
2. beaker
3. eosin stain
4. microscope

Procedure:

1. Take a balsam plant and place it in a beaker of eosin stain.
2. Make the transverse and longitudinal sections of the stem from the different heights of this plant to get a better idea about the resultant staining.
3. Observe the color of sections of balsam twigs under a microscope.

Observation: Xylem vessels and tracheids are found deeply colored by the stain.

Conclusion: The ascent of sap or water and minerals moves through the xylem to the top of the plants.