Answer:
The phrase "each time he had pulled a twig he had communicated a slight agitation to the tree" in Jack London's "To Build a Fire" describes a phenomenon known as tree communication or plant signaling.
In this context, the protagonist's action of pulling a twig causes a slight agitation or movement in the tree. This movement is a form of communication between the tree and its surroundings. It suggests that trees can respond to external stimuli, such as being touched or disturbed.
Tree communication is an area of study known as plant signaling or plant communication. It involves the exchange of information or signals between plants and their environment. Plants can communicate through various mechanisms, such as chemical signals released into the air or through their root systems.
For example, when a tree is attacked by insects, it can release chemical signals called volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. These VOCs can attract predatory insects or signal neighboring trees to activate their defense mechanisms.
Another example of plant communication is the transfer of nutrients and information through interconnected root systems, known as mycorrhizal networks. In these networks, fungi act as intermediaries, allowing plants to share resources and communicate with each other.
Overall, the phenomenon described in the given phrase highlights the intricate and often unnoticed ways in which plants interact with their environment. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of nature and the fascinating communication systems that exist between plants.
Step-by-step explanation:
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