Why is the active transport of sugars into sieve tube elements essential for the pressure flow mechanism?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking why active transport of sugars into sieve tube elements is essential for the pressure flow mechanism in plants. The pressure flow mechanism is how plants transport sugars from source to sink. To answer this, we need to understand the role of active transport in creating a pressure gradient within the sieve tubes.
Answer
Active transport of sugars into sieve tube elements increases turgor pressure, which is essential for the pressure flow mechanism.
Active transport of sugars into sieve tube elements is essential because it creates a high sugar concentration within these cells. This draws water into the sieve tubes via osmosis, increasing the turgor pressure. The pressure drives the flow of phloem sap from source to sink, according to the pressure flow mechanism.
Answer for screen readers
Active transport of sugars into sieve tube elements is essential because it creates a high sugar concentration within these cells. This draws water into the sieve tubes via osmosis, increasing the turgor pressure. The pressure drives the flow of phloem sap from source to sink, according to the pressure flow mechanism.
More Information
The pressure flow mechanism is the method by which phloem sap (the fluid containing sugars and other nutrients) moves through plants from source to sink.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing active transport with passive transport. Active transport requires energy because it moves substances against their concentration gradient, while passive transport does not require energy.
Sources
- Phloem Translocation - OER Commons - oercommons.org
- Plants: Essential Processes: Sugar Transport - SparkNotes - sparknotes.com
- 30.16: Transport of Water and Solutes in Plants - Biology LibreTexts - bio.libretexts.org
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