Question

The diagram below represents a layer of epidermal cells showing a fully grown root hair. Study the diagram and Name and explain the process that caused the root hair cell in a turgid state.

Answer 1

Absorption of water by the root is by means of root hairs. A root hair contains cell sap which has a higher concentration of salts as compared to the outside soil water. This difference sets off osmosis and the outside soil water diffuses into the root hair. From the cell bearing root hair, water continues to pass to adjoining cells one after another to finally enter the xylem vessels. The turgidity acquired by the cells in the process also helps to push the water upwards through the xylem vessels.