# Explain how the structure of root hair cells makes them well adapted for absorbing water and minerals from the soil.

> OCR GCSE Biology A: Gateway Science (J247) — B2.1 Supplying the cell · Explain · 4 marks

> Plants absorb water and minerals through root hair cells. These cells are found just behind the growing tip of roots and are in direct contact with the soil.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Root hair cells have a large surface area
2. Large surface area increases the rate of absorption / diffusion / osmosis
3. Water enters by osmosis (down a concentration gradient / from high water concentration in soil to low water concentration in root hair cell)
4. Minerals are absorbed by active transport (against the concentration gradient / requires energy)

## Key terms

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

## Related

- [Revision notes for OCR GCSE Biology A: Gateway Science (J247)](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-the-structure-of-root-53b4592a) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.