Capillary action requires no energy other than that contained within the molecules of water and so this is a very effective mechanism for the distribution of water to each part of a plant. Water is uniquely solvent, which means that essential nutrients easily dissolve in water. So water acts as a carrier of food for the plant. The cells of a plant are designed to absorb and excrete water and so the nutrients can feed the cells.
Capillary action also enables the water to reach parts of the plant, such as the underside of leaves, from where it can evaporate (transpiration) into the atmosphere. Transpiration causes loss of water and the reduced pressure helps with the upward flow.
Capillary action also enables the water to reach parts of the plant, such as the underside of leaves, from where it can evaporate (transpiration) into the atmosphere. Transpiration causes loss of water and the reduced pressure helps with the upward flow.
