How does capillary action contribute to sustaining life on Earth?

• A. By increasing the density of water, making it a more stable environment for aquatic life.
• B. By preventing water from evaporating quickly, maintaining moisture in the soil.
• C. By reducing the surface tension of water, enabling easier absorption by organisms.
• D. By allowing water to move through plant roots and stems, facilitating nutrient transport.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Capillary action is the ability of a liquid to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of external forces, often against gravity.
2. This phenomenon occurs due to the adhesive force between the liquid and the surface of the solid, combined with the cohesive forces within the liquid.
3. In plants, capillary action is crucial for the movement of water from the roots through the xylem vessels to the leaves.
4. The adhesive forces between water molecules and the walls of the xylem help pull water upward, while cohesive forces between water molecules maintain a continuous column of water.
5. This upward movement of water is essential for transporting nutrients and minerals from the soil to different parts of the plant, supporting growth and photosynthesis.