Embolisms
Embolisms are air bubbles in tree xylem that block water flow, forming when drought-induced tension pulls air into the water column and disrupting the plant's hydraulic system.
Embolisms are air-filled bubbles that form within the xylem vessels of plants when hydraulic tension becomes too great, blocking water transport from roots to leaves. This phenomenon, also known as xylem cavitation, occurs during drought stress when air enters the water column, disrupting the continuous pull driven by evaporation. It is a critical mechanism in tree mortality under climate change-induced dryness.
What this means in real life
After surgery, a patient develops a blood clot in their leg that breaks free and travels to the lungs, blocking blood flow and causing sudden chest pain and shortness of breath—this is a pulmonary embolism.
What it isn’t
An embolism is not the same as a thrombosis, which is a clot that forms and stays in place within a vessel. An embolism specifically involves material that travels and lodges elsewhere.
Commonly misused online
People often use 'embolism' and 'aneurysm' interchangeably, but they're different: an embolism is a blockage from traveling material, while an aneurysm is a weakened, bulging section of a vessel wall.
Based on 1 reference source, including primary sources. Last verified July 12, 2026.