Topic 9.1 Transport in the xylem of plants

Adhesive property

the joining of two different substances due to attractive forces that hold them, such as keeping the water drops on the surfaces of leaves.

Capillary tubing

a tube of small internal diameter that holds liquid by capillary action.

Cohesive property

the sticking together of similar molecules, such as one water molecule being attracted to another water molecule. It also causes water molecules to form drops.

Osmosis

net movement of water molecules through a semi-permeable membrane from an area of higher water potential to an area of lower water potential.

Potometer

a device used for measuring the rate of water uptake of a plant due to photosynthesis and transpiration.

Water tension

the force created by evaporation of water coupled with the cohesive and adhesive forces in plants, enough to support a column of water against the forces of gravity in plants and trees.

Transpiration

the loss of water by evaporation in terrestrial plants, especially through the stomata (accompanied by a corresponding water uptake from the roots).

Xylem

the woody tissue which supports and transport water in vascular plants.