Gce Model Questions Vol1 2025 Biology Question 5

Practice essay / theory question 5 from the 2025 Gce Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination. This question covers Transport, Xylem, Water potential, Cohesion‑tension theory .

Gce Model Questions Vol1 2025 Biology Essay / Theory
Topics: Transport Xylem Water potential Cohesion‑tension theory
Question 5 GCE_MODEL_QUESTIONS_VOL1 • 2025 • BIOLOGY • essay

A 30‑metre‑tall tropical tree loses water through its leaves at a rate of 0.5 kg h⁻¹. The total cross‑sectional area of its functional sapwood (the part of the xylem that conducts water) is 0.02 m². Assuming the density of water is 1000 kg m⁻³, answer the following: a) Calculate the average velocity of the upward flow of water in the xylem (express your answer in µm s⁻¹). Show all steps of your calculation. b) Using the cohesion‑tension theory, explain how this relatively slow upward flow can sustain the water supply to the canopy of such a tall tree. In your answer discuss at least three factors that assist the movement of water against gravity.

Question Parts

( a )
Calculate the average velocity of the upward flow of water in the xylem (express your answer in µm s⁻¹). Show all steps of your calculation.
( b )
Using the cohesion‑tension theory, explain how this relatively slow upward flow can sustain the water supply to the canopy of such a tall tree. In your answer discuss at least three factors that assist the movement of water against gravity.

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About This Question

This is Gce Model Questions Vol1 2025 Biology Question 5. It is one of the essay questions from the 2025 Gce Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination.

The question covers Transport, Xylem, Water potential, Cohesion‑tension theory .

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