In plant physiology, the 'Munch hypothesis' for the translocation of sugars in the phloem relies on the creation of a:
A. Cohesion-tension force
B. Root pressure
C. Transpiration pull
D. Turgor pressure gradient
Answer: Option D
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
The Munch hypothesis, or mass flow hypothesis, explains the movement of sugars (primarily sucrose) through the phloem. It proposes that sugars are actively loaded into the phloem at the source (e.g., leaves), which lowers the water potential and causes water to enter from the xylem by osmosis. This creates a high turgor pressure. At the sink (e.g., roots, fruits), sugars are unloaded, increasing water potential, and water leaves the phloem, creating a low turgor pressure. The bulk flow of sap is driven by this turgor pressure gradient from source to sink.
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