Which of the following is the correct pathway of absorbed water in the roots of plants?

Options

A. Soil water`to` root hair cell `to` passage cells`to`corticl cells`to` Xylem`to`pericycle
B. Soil water `to`root hair cell `to`pericycle`to`cortical cells`to` passage cells `to`xylem
C. Soil water `to`root hair cell`to` corical cells`to`passage cells `to` pericycle`to` xylem
D. Soil water `to` root hair cell`to` cortical cells `to`pericycle `to`xylem `to`xylem

Answer

To determine the correct pathway of absorbed water in the roots of plants, we can break down the process into a series of steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Source of Water**: The water that plants absorb comes from the soil. This is the starting point of the pathway.

2. **Root Hairs**: The primary site of water absorption is through root hairs. These are tiny extensions of the root epidermal cells that significantly increase the surface area for absorption.

3. **Epidermis**: Once the water is absorbed by the root hairs, it moves into the epidermis of the root. This is the outermost layer of cells.

4. **Cortex**: After passing through the epidermis, the water travels into the cortex. The cortex is made up of several layers of cells that help in the transport of water and nutrients.

5. **Endodermis**: Following the cortex, the water then enters the endodermis, which is a specialized layer that regulates the flow of water and minerals into the vascular system of the root.

6. **Pericycle**: The next layer is the pericycle, which is located just inside the endodermis. It plays a role in the formation of lateral roots and can also assist in the transport of water.

7. **Xylem**: Finally, the water reaches the xylem, which is the vascular tissue responsible for transporting water and nutrients throughout the plant.

### Correct Sequence:
The correct pathway of absorbed water in the roots of plants is:
- Soil → Root Hairs → Epidermis → Cortex → Endodermis → Pericycle → Xylem