2006-09-27 18:47:26 · 7 answers · asked by Patrick Bateman 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Engineering
In 2004, there was an article in the magazine "Nature" concluding that 400 to 425 feet was the limit, based on getting water from the roots up to the top. Weight at the base doesn't seem to be a problem. The tallest known sequoia is about 380 feet.
2006-09-28 03:38:40 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Very nice answers on this question. We need to consider as well how much power the roots can develop to pump water all the way to the top. This factor as well as the structural factor limits how tall a tree can be. In theory even if you give a tree bracing or extra support, there is a limit on how high it can pump water
2006-09-27 20:41:54 · answer #2 · answered by SAREK 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In theory, the limit is not so much on the height as it is about the mass and the weight per unit area that the trunk will apply at the base of the trunk.
One way to reduce the weight per unit area at the base of the trunk is to evolve adevtitious roots like a banyan tree. But this approach favours horizontal growth rather than vertical.
With the physiology of extant trees, the limit is around 90metres - the giant sequoia tree. And till evolution favours higher trees and a different physiology, i believe this is the limit.
2006-09-27 19:11:32 · answer #3 · answered by Mojosaurus 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
175 - 600 feet
2006-09-27 18:48:36 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Have the slightest idea, but I would think one could reach the moon.
2006-09-27 18:49:42 · answer #5 · answered by Frank R 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
i talk to the trees. but they don't listen to me.
clint eastwood
2006-09-27 18:50:18 · answer #6 · answered by getit 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
as tall as thee maijuana plant you just smoked
2006-09-27 18:49:29 · answer #7 · answered by gallow 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋