How does capillary action work in plants? Capillary action in plants works through the following steps: 1. *Water absorption*: Water enters the plant through the roots, specifically the root hairs, which increase the surface area for absorption. 2. *Xylem vessels*: Water enters the xylem, a vascular tissue composed of tracheids, vessels, and xylem parenchyma cells. Xylem vessels are narrow, tube-like structures that facilitate capillary action. 3. *Adhesion and cohesion*: Water molecules adhere to the xylem vessel walls and cohere to each other, creating a continuous column of water. 4. *Transpiration pull*: Water evaporates from the leaves through transpiration, creating a negative pressure that pulls the water column up the xylem. 5. *Capillary rise*: Water rises up the xylem vessels due to capillary action, driven by the combination of adhesion, cohesion, and transpiration pull. 6. *Water distribution*: Water is distributed throughout the plant, reaching the leaves, stems, and other tissues. Key factors influencing capillary action in plants include: - *Xylem vessel diameter*: Narrower vessels enhance capillary action. - *Water potential*: The difference in water potential between the roots and leaves drives water movement. - *Root and leaf structure*: Root hairs and leaf veins optimize water absorption and distribution. By leveraging capillary action, plants efficiently transport water and nutrients, supporting growth and survival.