[Campbell Biology P.843] Eduard Strasburger's experiment, where leafy stems drew up toxic so... | Practice Question

Eduard Strasburger's experiment, where leafy stems drew up toxic solutions even after cells died, demonstrated which of the following about xylem sap ascent?

  • A: Root pressure is the primary mechanism for water transport.
  • B: Living cells in the xylem are essential for long-distance water transport.
  • C: The bulk movement of xylem sap does not primarily depend on the metabolic activity of living cells.
  • D: Transpiration only occurs in living leaves.
  • E: Copper sulfate and acid enhance water uptake in plants.

Explanation

Strasburger's experiment showed that even with dead cells, water could still be drawn up, demonstrating that the bulk flow of xylem sap is primarily a physical process, not dependent on the metabolic activity of living cells.