Question

Which is an example of capillary action?

A
water flowing down from a faucet

B
a flat puddle of water on the ground

C
water moving from the roots to the leaves of a plant

D
an insect walking on the surface of water without breaking it

Answer 1

Capillary action is exemplified by option C, where water moves from the roots to the leaves of a plant, climbing up against gravity through xylem vessels due to a balance of cohesive and adhesive forces.

Step-by-step explanation:

Capillary action refers to the ability of a liquid to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of external forces like gravity. This phenomenon occurs due to a balance of cohesive forces (which cause the liquid to stay together) and adhesive forces (which cause the liquid to stick to surfaces). An example of capillary action is provided by option C: water moving from the roots to the leaves of a plant.

In a plant, water and dissolved nutrients are transported from the soil to various parts of the plant through specialized cells known as xylem. The small diameter of xylem vessels allows the water to move upwards against gravity through capillary action. This movement is essential for the plant's survival as it helps to distribute vital nutrients and maintain the structure of the plant