1. Absorption by Roots: Water is absorbed by the roots from the soil, primarily through tiny root hairs that increase surface area for absorption.
2. Upward Movement: The water then travels upwards through the plant's vascular tissue, specifically the xylem. The xylem is like a network of tubes that carry water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant.
3. Transpiration Pull: The key driver of water movement is transpiration. This is the process where water evaporates from the leaves through tiny pores called stomata. As water evaporates, it creates a negative pressure (tension) in the xylem, pulling more water upwards from the roots.
4. Cohesion and Adhesion: Water molecules are cohesive (stick to each other) and adhesive (stick to the xylem walls). This allows the water column to move upwards as a continuous stream, even against gravity.
5. Leaf Delivery: Once the water reaches the leaves, it is used for photosynthesis. The water provides the hydrogen atoms needed to convert carbon dioxide into glucose, the plant's primary food source.
In summary:
* Roots absorb water.
* Xylem carries water upwards.
* Transpiration pulls water through the plant.
* Water reaches the leaves for photosynthesis.
