Water molecules are highly polar. The polar end of a molecule attracts opposite charges on another water molecule (acting like a magnet). How would you explain this property of water with reference to the upward movement of water? Comment on the upward movement of water given the intermolecular hydrogen bonding in water.

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(N/A) $\Rightarrow$ The polarity of water molecules leads to strong cohesive forces (attraction between water molecules) and adhesive forces (attraction between water molecules and the surfaces of xylem vessels).
$\Rightarrow$ The upward movement of water is facilitated by these properties:
$(i)$ Cohesion: Mutual attraction between water molecules due to hydrogen bonding,which resists the downward pull of gravity.
$(ii)$ Adhesion: Attraction of water molecules to the polar surfaces of tracheids and vessel elements,which helps water climb against gravity.
$(iii)$ Capillarity: The ability of water to rise in narrow tubes (like xylem) due to the combined effect of cohesion,adhesion,and surface tension.
$\Rightarrow$ Intermolecular hydrogen bonding ensures that water remains a cohesive liquid column,allowing it to be pulled upward through the xylem under tension generated by transpiration.

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