# Explain how root hair cells and xylem vessels are each adapted to allow water to be transported from the soil to the leaves of a plant.

> Eduqas A-Level Biology — 2.3 Adaptations for transport in plants and animals · Explain · 5 marks

> Plants must absorb water from the soil and transport it to every part of the plant. This involves two key structures: root hair cells and xylem vessels.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Root hair cells have a large surface area, which increases the rate of water uptake by osmosis.
2. Water enters root hair cells by osmosis, moving from a region of high water concentration in the soil to a region of lower water concentration inside the cell.
3. Xylem vessels are made from hollowed-out dead cells with their end walls removed, forming a continuous tube for water to flow through.
4. Xylem vessel walls are impermeable to water, so water is kept inside and flows upwards through the tube.
5. Xylem vessels are strengthened with lignin, which supports the plant and keeps the vessels open so water can flow freely.

## Key terms

- [root hair cells](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/root-hair-cells)
- [xylem](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/xylem)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas A-Level Biology](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-root-hair-cells-and-2c6ea05c) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.