Question

Root hairs are thin outgrowths from certain plant roots that enhance water and nutrient absorption from the soil. Which of the following best describes how root hairs are specialized for this function?
A. Root hairs are specialized for the phagocytosis of nutrients and water in the soil.

B. Root hairs contain an increased number of vacuoles that store water for the plant.

C. Root hairs have an elongated shape that increases the surface area-to-volume ratio.

D. Root hairs have specialized membranes that have increased permeability to water and nutrients.

Answer 1

Answer: Option C) Root hairs have an elongated shape that increases the surface area-to-volume ratio.

Explanation:

The larger surface area-to-volume ratio of root hairs enables them to rapidly absorped water molecules and nutrients along their elongated shape while aiding their upward transport from the root up the shoot (through the xylem vessels).