Which property of water allows it to move upward through the vessels of plants against gravity?

• A. Low specific heat capacity
• B. Nonpolarity of water molecules
• C. Cohesion between water molecules
• D. High density in solid form

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the problem: The question is asking about a property of water that enables it to move upward through plant vessels, such as xylem, against the force of gravity.
2. Recall the relevant concept: Water molecules exhibit a property called cohesion, which is the attraction between water molecules due to hydrogen bonding. This property is crucial for the upward movement of water in plants.
3. Relate cohesion to plant physiology: In plants, cohesion allows water molecules to stick together, forming a continuous column of water within the xylem vessels. This column is pulled upward by transpiration (the evaporation of water from leaves).
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Low specific heat capacity is unrelated to water movement in plants. Nonpolarity of water molecules is incorrect because water is polar, and high density in solid form (ice) is irrelevant to this process.
5. Conclude the correct answer: The property of water that allows it to move upward through plant vessels against gravity is cohesion between water molecules.