Which of the following is correct regarding mineral ions absorption in plants ?

Options

A. Most of the mineral ions are absorbed passively and actively absorbed
B. Most of the mineral ions are absorbed passively and passively absorbed
C. All the mineral ions are actively absorbed
D. All the mineral ions are passively absorbed

Answer

To solve the question regarding mineral ion absorption in plants, we will analyze each option provided and determine which statement is correct.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Mineral Ion Absorption**:
- Plants absorb mineral ions from the soil primarily through their root systems. This process can occur in two main ways: active absorption and passive absorption.

2. **Active Absorption**:
- Active absorption is a process that requires energy, usually in the form of ATP. This process occurs against the concentration gradient, meaning that minerals are absorbed from a region of lower concentration to a region of higher concentration. This is essential for the uptake of certain minerals that are present in low concentrations in the soil.

3. **Passive Absorption**:
- Passive absorption occurs when minerals are absorbed along with water. This process does not require energy as it occurs along the concentration gradient, meaning minerals move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. This typically happens when the roots take up water through osmosis.

4. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Option 1**: "Most of the mineral ions are absorbed passively and actively absorbed." - This statement is misleading as it suggests that both processes are equally significant, which is not accurate.
- **Option 2**: "Most of the minerals are absorbed passively." - This statement is correct, as many minerals are indeed absorbed passively along with water.
- **Option 3**: "All the minerals are actively absorbed." - This statement is incorrect because not all minerals are absorbed through active transport; many are absorbed passively.
- **Option 4**: "All the minerals are passively absorbed." - This statement is also incorrect as some minerals require active transport.

5. **Conclusion**:
- The correct answer is **Option 2**: "Most of the minerals are absorbed passively."