What feature increases the surface area for water absorption on roots?

What feature increases the surface area for water absorption on roots?

• A. Buds
• B. Root hairs
• C. Leaves
• D. Nodules

Answer: (B)

Root hairs increase the surface area of roots, extending from epidermal cells at the root tip to contact more soil water and minerals. This slender, tubular growth creates a much larger interface with the soil solution, so water can enter the root more efficiently through osmosis and move into the plant. Leaves and buds are mainly involved in photosynthesis and growth, while nodules are sites of nitrogen fixation in legumes; neither primarily boosts water absorption. Thus, root hairs are the feature that expands surface area for water uptake.

Root hairs increase the surface area of roots, extending from epidermal cells at the root tip to contact more soil water and minerals. This slender, tubular growth creates a much larger interface with the soil solution, so water can enter the root more efficiently through osmosis and move into the plant. Leaves and buds are mainly involved in photosynthesis and growth, while nodules are sites of nitrogen fixation in legumes; neither primarily boosts water absorption. Thus, root hairs are the feature that expands surface area for water uptake.