how is the continuity of the water column maintained
Answers
Answer:
According to the most widely accepted theory of Dixon and Jolly for ascent of sap; the ascent of sap in plants is a passive physical process, which occurs under the influence of transpiration pull generated due to loss of water from aerial parts. Other than the pull, a continuous column of water is also essential for rise of water in xylem elements.
The continuous column of water is maintained by cohesion forces between water molecules and adhesive forces between water molecules and vascular elements of the plant.
The continuity of the water column is maintained by the adhesive and cohesive properties of water. The adhesive property of the water molecules makes them adhere to the xylem walls and its cohesive property makes the water molecules remain together and move up as a stream.