Question

How are cohesive and adhesive forces involved in transport of water?

Answer 1

Transport of water:

1. It is the process that involves the movement of water to all parts of the plant for its survival.
2. In plants, the xylem functions as a conducting tissue for water and minerals from roots to the stem and leaves.

Cohesive forces:

1. It refers to the force of attraction between the same kind of molecules.
2. Water molecules possess strong cohesive forces due to their ability to form hydrogen bonds with one another.

Adhesive forces:

The force of attraction between the unlike molecules is called adhesive force.

Importance of cohesive and adhesive forces in the transport of water:

1. These forces are important for the transport of water from the roots to the leaves in the plants as they create a transpiration pull on the water column.
2. Transpiration pull or the suction force helps in lifting the water upwards from the roots to the leaves.
3. The cohesive and adhesive forces enable the plants to receive the required water and dissolved minerals.