Question

Which of the following factors inhibit the absorption of water by roots?

• A. Low soil temperature
• B. High concentration of soil solution
• C. Low soil aertion
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is D All of the above

Water can be absorbed actively or passively. Active absorption requires energy input in the form of ATP. The energy is obtained by cellular respiration. Hence, factors like extremes of temperature and poor soil aeration, which inhibit cellular respiration, in general, inhibit active absorption of water.

Passive absorption depends on the osmotic concentration of soil solution. If the soil solution is hyperosmotic passive absorption of water will be inhibited, because water naturally flows along its concentration gradient, from hypotonic to a hypertonic solution.