Which property of water helps plants to transport water from their roots to their leaves?

• A. Cohesion
• B. Surface tension
• C. Capillary action
• D. Adhesion

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the concept of capillary action. Capillary action is the ability of a liquid to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of external forces like gravity. This is crucial for plants as it helps transport water from roots to leaves.
2. Recognize that capillary action involves two key properties of water: adhesion and cohesion. Adhesion is the attraction between water molecules and the walls of the plant's xylem vessels, while cohesion is the attraction between water molecules themselves.
3. Explore how adhesion works in capillary action. Water molecules adhere to the walls of the xylem vessels, which helps pull the water upward against gravity.
4. Examine the role of cohesion in capillary action. Cohesion allows water molecules to stick together, forming a continuous column of water that can be pulled upward through the plant.
5. Understand that capillary action is a result of both adhesion and cohesion working together. Adhesion helps water climb up the plant's vessels, while cohesion ensures that the water molecules stay connected, allowing for efficient transport from roots to leaves.