Which statement describes how water is pulled up through the xylem to the leaves of the plant?

• A. Water is pulled up through the xylem by active transport of water molecules.
• B. Water is pulled up through the xylem due to cohesion and adhesion forces.
• C. Water is pulled up through the xylem by the process of osmosis.
• D. Water is pulled up through the xylem by gravitational forces.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of xylem: Xylem is a type of tissue in vascular plants that transports water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant.
2. Identify the forces involved: The movement of water through the xylem is primarily driven by cohesion and adhesion forces, not active transport, osmosis, or gravity.
3. Explain cohesion: Cohesion refers to the attraction between water molecules, which helps to form a continuous column of water within the xylem.
4. Explain adhesion: Adhesion is the attraction between water molecules and the walls of the xylem vessels, which helps to counteract the force of gravity and assists in pulling water upwards.
5. Summarize the process: The combination of cohesion and adhesion, along with transpiration (the evaporation of water from plant leaves), creates a negative pressure that pulls water up through the xylem from the roots to the leaves.