Question

The small diameter of the tracheary elements increases ___________

• A. adhesion
• B. cohesion
• C. tensile strength
• D. capillarity

Answer 1

Answer:

D. capillarity

• In plants, capillarity is aided by the small diameter of the xylem elements, i.e., the tracheids and vessel elements.

• Capillarity is the ability to rise in thin tubes.

• Cohesion is mutual attraction between molecules of H2O.

• Adhesion is attraction of water molecules to the surfaces of tracheary elements.

• Tensile strength is ability to resist a pulling force.

• Adhesion, cohesion and tensile strength are properties of xylem which enables the ascent of xylem sap.