# Root hair cells are adapted to absorb water and mineral ions from the soil. Explain how root hair cells are adapted for this function, and describe the processes by which water and mineral ions enter the root hair cell.

> Eduqas A-Level Biology — 2.4 Adaptations for nutrition · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Root hair cells have a large surface area (due to the hair-like extension)
2. Water enters by osmosis — net movement from a region of high water concentration (soil) to a region of low water concentration (cell) through a partially permeable membrane
3. Mineral ions enter by active transport
4. Active transport moves mineral ions against the concentration gradient (from low concentration in soil to high concentration in the cell)
5. Active transport requires energy (from respiration)

## Key terms

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

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas A-Level Biology](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/root-hair-cells-are-adapted-to-711ccf5d) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.