What is the Negative Water Pressure in the Xylem of a Plant

Question

What is the negative water pressure in the xylem of a plant?
A) torsion
B) cohesion
C) adhesion
D) tension

Accepted Answer

The negative water pressure in the xylem of a plant is referred to as tension. This tension is created when water evaporates from the leaves through transpiration, creating a negative pressure or tension that pulls water up through the xylem from the roots to the leaves. This is possible due to the cohesive and adhesive properties of water, which allow it to stick together and to the walls of the xylem. Torsion is not a relevant term in this context.