Three Dimensional Computational Model of Water Movement in Plant Root Growth Zone

Mathematical models of the plant root growth zone already exist, but there is a lack of experimental evidence to support the model results. It is our belief that these models, specifically the Osmotic Model presented by Silk and Wagner [7], need a component representing a pressure-driven bulk flow of water through the phloem to the region in the growth zone where phloem is just beginning to function. The combination of pressure driven conductive flow and water potential gradients could be bringing water from the functional phloem and the surrounding soil to facilitate growth. The new Internal Source Model that I am developing is expected to explain a body of empirical results on water relations. It will provide a mechanistic understanding of growth sustaining water relations.