Absroption of a mineral element by the plant

Options

A. is passive into inner space of cells
B. Is slow into the free space of cells
C. Is rapid into outer space of cells
D. is active in free space of cells

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Mineral Absorption**:
- Plants absorb mineral elements from the soil through their roots. This process is essential for their growth and development.

2. **Phases of Absorption**:
- The absorption of mineral ions occurs in two main phases:
- **Phase 1 (Outer Space)**: This phase involves the initial rapid uptake of ions. It occurs in the outer space of the cells (the free space).
- **Phase 2 (Inner Space)**: This phase involves the slower uptake of ions into the inner space of the cells (the symplast).

3. **Mechanism of Absorption**:
- **Passive Absorption**: In the first phase, the absorption is passive, meaning it does not require energy. The mineral ions move from an area of higher concentration in the soil to an area of lower concentration in the outer space of the cells.
- **Active Absorption**: In the second phase, the uptake of ions into the inner space (symplast) is active. This process requires energy and involves carrier proteins that help transport the ions against their concentration gradient.

4. **Analyzing the Options**:
- The question provides several statements regarding the absorption of mineral elements:
- "Passive into inner space of cells" - This statement is incorrect; absorption into the inner space is active.
- "Slow into the free space of cells" - This statement is incorrect; absorption into the free space is rapid.
- "Rapid into outer space of cells" - This statement is correct; absorption into the outer space is rapid and passive.
- "Active in free space of cells" - This statement is incorrect; the free space absorption is passive.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Based on the analysis, the correct statement regarding the absorption of a mineral element by the plant is that it is "rapid into outer space of cells."