Discuss the factors responsible for ascent of xylem sap in plants.

Transpirational pull is responsible for the ascent of water in the xylem. This ascent of water is dependent on the following physical factors:

• Cohesion – Mutual attraction between water molecules

• Surface tension – Responsible for the greater attraction between water molecules in liquid phase than in gaseous phase

• Adhesion – Attraction of water molecules to polar surfaces

• Capillarity –Ability of water to rise in thin tubes.

These physical properties of water allow it to move against gravity in the xylem.