9. (06.05 MC)
Which of the following best describes a factor in the evolution of plants that led to their success in surviving on land? (2 points)
Xylem developed to transport water from the plants roots to the rest of the plant.
A waxy cuticle developed to prevent plants from being eaten by herbivores.
Stomata developed to allow water to enter the plants leaves from the atmosphere.
Seeds developed to provide a place for the plants genetic information to be stored.

1: most common garden plants prefer loam — soils with a balance of different-sized mineral particles (approximately 40% sand, 40% silt, and 20% clay) with ample organic matter and pore space. however, some plants grow better in sandy soils, while others are well-adapted to clay soils.

2: available water capacity is the maximum amount of plant available water a soil can provide. it is an indicator of a soil's ability to retain water and make it sufficiently available for plant use. available water capacity is the water held in soil between its field capacity and permanent wilting point.

3: it is the same for all living things (plants and animals). it also includes very tiny organisms that our eyes cannot see. they are known as microorganisms, and include viruses, bacteria and fungi.