Transport in Plants

Question 1

Explain how the structure of a root hair cell is adapted to absorb water and mineral ions.

Answer 1

• Each branch of a root is covered in many microscopic hairs, giving it a large surface area for absorbing water and mineral ions from the soil
• Mineral ions are absorbed by active transport, whereas water is absorbed by osmosis

Question 2

Describe the structure of a xylem vessel and its function in a plant.

Answer 2

• It is made of lignified dead cells
• It transports water and dissolved mineral ions through the plant via transpiration

Question 3

Describe the structure of a phloem vessel and its function in a plant.

Answer 3

• It is made of elongated living cells
• It transports food substances (sucrose) around the plant via translocation using energy

Question 4

In which direction are food substances transported in a phloem vessel?

Answer 4

In both directions of the tube, since sucrose made in the leaves needs to be transported to the rest of the plant

Question 5

What is the ‘transpiration stream’?

Answer 5

The movement of water from the roots of a plant, through the xylem and out of the leaves via evaporation

Question 6

(Exam-style question)

Answer 6