Describe how roots take up water and mineral salts by active and passive absorption.

Roots absorb water and minerals through two main processes: active absorption and passive absorption. Passive absorption occurs when water moves into the root cells by osmosis. The water in the soil has a higher water potential than the root cells, so water moves from the soil into the root hair cells through the semi-permeable membrane. … Read more

Explain the internal structure of root and root hair.

The root is a complex structure composed of several layers. The outermost layer is the epidermis, which serves as a protective barrier. The epidermis is covered with tiny, hair-like extensions called root hairs, which significantly increase the surface area for water and mineral absorption from the soil. Beneath the epidermis lies the cortex, which stores … Read more

State that nitrogen is important in protein synthesis and magnesium for chlorophyll formation.

Nitrogen is a vital element for plants because it is a major component of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Proteins are essential for various physiological functions in plants, including enzyme activity, growth, and structural development. Nitrogen is absorbed by plants in the form of nitrates and ammonium ions from the soil, … Read more

Write the difference between:

Micronutrients and macronutrients: Macronutrients are nutrients required in large amounts, like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, while micronutrients are required in smaller quantities, like iron, manganese, and zinc. Hydrophytes and xerophytes: Hydrophytes are plants that grow in aquatic environments and are adapted to submerged conditions, while xerophytes are plants adapted to dry conditions, often with specialized … Read more

Why do plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen during daytime and dusk?

During the daytime, plants engage in photosynthesis, where they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen as a byproduct. At dusk, photosynthesis slows down or stops, and the plant switches to respiration, during which it absorbs oxygen and releases carbon dioxide. Related Questions: Why is transpiration called a necessary evil? What is the composition of translocating … Read more

What is the pattern of gas exchange between plant and environment at the time of dawn and dusk?

At dawn and dusk, plants absorb oxygen and release carbon dioxide as part of respiration. During the night, when photosynthesis doesn’t occur, plants continue to respire, absorbing oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide. At dawn, as light levels increase, photosynthesis begins, leading to the absorption of carbon dioxide and the release of oxygen. Related Questions: Why … Read more

Write any three osmotic adjustments in hydrophytes.

Hydrophytes have specialized cells with a higher concentration of solutes to retain water. Their vacuoles maintain high water potential to facilitate water uptake from the surrounding environment. The presence of large air spaces within their tissues allows for easier gas exchange and helps in buoyancy. Related Questions: Why is transpiration called a necessary evil? What … Read more

What is the effect of temperature on the rate of transpiration?

The rate of transpiration increases with temperature because warmer temperatures cause the stomata to open more widely, allowing for greater evaporation of water from the plant’s surface. Higher temperatures also increase the water-holding capacity of air, further promoting transpiration. Related Questions: Why is transpiration called a necessary evil? What is the composition of translocating fluid? … Read more

Why do gardeners like to use autumn leaves in their soil?

Gardeners use autumn leaves because they provide organic matter that enriches the soil. As the leaves decompose, they release nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential for plant growth, and improve the soil’s structure and water retention capacity. Related Questions: Why is transpiration called a necessary evil? What is the composition of translocating … Read more