Question

The physiological process that helps in the uptake of water and salts in plants is

• A. diffusion
• B. photosynthesis
  
• C. respiration
• D. osmosis
  

Answer 1

The correct option is D

osmosis

The correct option is D.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. Osmosis is the process of movement of solvent (water) molecules from higher concentration to lower concentration across a semipermeable membrane.
2. . Roots have root hairs on their tip.
3. Water and salt are absorbed from the soil by the cell membrane of root hair which is a selectively permeable membrane.
4. Hence osmosis is the process that helps in the uptake of water and salts in plants.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option A :

1. Diffusion is the process of movement of any molecules from higher concentration to lower concentration.
2. It doesn't require any semipermeable membrane. As the root hairs are covered with a cell membrane, the diffusion process will not occur.

Option B :

1. Photosynthesis is a process in which light energy is converted into chemical energy.
2. It is the process by which plants use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create oxygen and energy in the form of sugar.

Option C :

1. Respiration is the process in which the production of energy occurs through the intake of oxygen and the release of carbon dioxide.

Final answer: The physiological process that helps in the uptake of water and salts in plants is osmosis.