12. Discuss the factors responsible for ascent of xylem sap in plants.
The various factors responsible for the ascent of sap are as follows:
1. Capillarity- It is the limited rise of water in narrow tubes or capillaries due to forces of cohesion amongst the molecules of water and their property of adhesion to other substances.
2. Imbibition- Hydrophilic colloids can attract and hold water on the surface and inside their interspaces.
3. Root pressure- It is the positive pressure that pushes sap from below due to active absorption by roots.
4. Transpiration pull- Transpiration in aerial parts brings the xylem sap under negative pressure or tension due to the continuous withdrawal of water by them. The water column does not break due to its high tensile strength related to the high force of cohesion and adhesion.