Final answer:
Cohesion and adhesion are fundamental to xylem transport by maintaining a continuous water column, allowing water and nutrients to move from the roots to the tops of plants, which is essential for plant survival and growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
In xylem transport, cohesion and adhesion play crucial roles. Cohesion pertains to the attractive force between water molecules, which enables them to stick together and form a continuous water column within the xylem vessels. Adhesion refers to the attraction between water molecules and the walls of the xylem vessels, assisting in the upward motion of water against gravity. When water evaporates from the leaves during transpiration, it creates a negative pressure that results in a 'pull' on the water column below. This pull is due to the cohesive property of water molecules wanting to stay together. Additionally, the adhesion of water to xylem cell walls helps in sustaining this water column and further facilitates the upward movement. Not only does xylem transport supply water to the entire plant, but it also delivers essential dissolved minerals from the soil. Without the cohesive and adhesive properties of water, plants would struggle to survive as they could not transport these vital resources from the roots to the leaves effectively. This transport mechanism is fundamental to plant health and growth.