Question

water is essential for life. its special properties make water the single most important molecule in plant life. which of the following properties of water enables it to move from the roots to the leaves of a plant? a water is an excellent solvent. b water exhibits cohesive behavior. c water is able to regulate temperature. d water expands when it freezes.

Explanation:

Cohesion is the attraction between molecules of the same substance. In plants, water molecules stick to each other (cohesion). This cohesive property helps in the continuous column of water from the roots to the leaves as water evaporates from the leaves (transpiration pull). Water being an excellent solvent (A) is important for transporting substances within the plant but not for movement from roots to leaves. Water regulating temperature (C) is due to its high specific heat capacity and is more about maintaining stable internal temperatures rather than movement. Water expanding when it freezes (D) is relevant for things like ice formation and protection of cells from freezing damage but not for upward movement in plants.

Answer:

B. Water exhibits cohesive behavior