The attraction between water molecules and the cell wall of xylem is termed as:

Explanation

Option A: Cohesion refers to the attraction between water molecules themselves, which allows them to stick together and form a continuous column in the xylem. Option B: Tension refers to the force that pulls water up through the xylem, which is caused by transpiration at the leaves. Option C: Adhesion is a molecular attraction between "unlike" molecules. In the case of the xylem, adhesion occurs between water molecules and the molecules of the xylem cell walls. Cohesion is a molecular attraction between "like" molecules. In water, cohesion occurs due to hydrogen bonding between the water molecules.Option D: Imbibition refers to the process by which a solid absorbs water, such as a seed swelling when it takes up water.