The cut end of a shoot is dipped in eosine solution. What will happen ?

Options

A. Ascent of sap does not occur
B. Ascent of sap does not occur but the leaves remain fresh
C. Leaves wilt but ascent of sap continues
D. Ascent of sap occurs and the tracheary elements get stained.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Eosin Solution**: Eosin is a dye commonly used in histology to stain plant tissues. It is pink in color and helps in visualizing the protein content of cells.

2. **Dipping the Cut End of a Shoot**: When the cut end of a shoot is dipped in eosin solution, the solution acts similarly to water, providing moisture to the plant tissues.

3. **Creating a Concentration Gradient**: By dipping the cut end in eosin solution, a concentration gradient is established. This means that there are more eosin molecules in the solution compared to the inside of the plant tissues.

4. **Transpiration Pull**: The concentration gradient leads to a transpiration pull. This is a process where water (and any dissolved substances, like eosin) is pulled upward through the plant due to the loss of water vapor from the leaves.

5. **Ascent of Sap**: As a result of the transpiration pull, the eosin solution moves upward through the xylem tissues of the plant. The xylem is responsible for transporting water and nutrients from the roots to the leaves.

6. **Staining of Tracheal Elements**: As the eosin solution travels up through the xylem, it stains the tracheal elements (the cells in the xylem), making them visible.

7. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct conclusion is that the ascent of sap occurs and the tracheal elements get stained.

**Final Answer**: Ascent of sap occurs and the tracheal elements get stained (Option D).

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