Question

Pulsation theory to explain ascent of sap in Desmodium was proposed by

• A. Dixon and Jolly
• B. Curtis
• C. J. C. Bose
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

J. C. Bose

"Pulsation" or "Vital force" theory was a proposed mechanism for the ascent of sap through the xylem tissue of plants according to which, the conduction of water up the xylem vessel is a result of vital action of the living cells in the xylem tissue.
Jagadish Chandra Bose suggested this mechanism for the ascent of sap in 1927. He found electrical pulsations or oscillations in electric potentials, and came to believe these were coupled with rhythmic movements in the telegraph plant Desmodium. However, this theory has now been rejected by majority of plant physiologists.