# Explain how water moves from the soil into the xylem of a plant root, and describe how the xylem is adapted to transport water to the leaves.

> Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0) — 6.2 Transport in plants · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Root hair cells absorb water from the soil
2. Root hair cells have a large surface area (due to long hair-like extensions / root hairs) to increase the rate of absorption
3. Xylem transports water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the leaves
4. Xylem cell walls are strengthened / reinforced by lignin, forming hollow tubes that support the upward flow of water

## Key terms

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

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0)](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-water-moves-from-the-17105046) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.