How are cohesion and adhesion properties of water linked to photosynthesis?
biology
assignment
The cohesion and adhesion properties of water are crucial for the process of photosynthesis.
Cohesion refers to the attraction between water molecules, causing them to stick together. Adhesion, on the other hand, is the attraction between water molecules and other substances, such as the walls of plant cells or the surfaces of plant tissues.
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into glucose (a type of sugar) and oxygen. Several key steps in photosynthesis rely on the cohesion and adhesion properties of water.
1. Water transport in plants: Cohesion and adhesion allow water to move against gravity through the xylem vessels in plants. The cohesive forces between water molecules allow for the continuous movement of water up the stem, while adhesion helps water molecules adhere to the xylem walls.
2. Capillary action: Cohesion and adhesion enable water to move through narrow spaces, against gravity. This is especially important for the transport of water from the roots to the leaves of a plant. Capillary action helps water move up the plant's vascular system, ensuring sufficient water supply for photosynthesis.
3. Gas exchange: During photosynthesis, carbon dioxide enters the plant through openings called stomata on the leaves. The cohesive properties of water help to maintain a thin, continuous film of water around the stomata, preventing excessive evaporation and keeping the stomata open for gas exchange.
Overall, the cohesion and adhesion properties of water facilitate the movement of water and dissolved nutrients within plants, allowing for efficient nutrient uptake and gas exchange that are essential for the process of photosynthesis.