Which of the following is correct regarding mineral ions absorption in plants?
(a) Most of the mineral ions are absorbed passively and actively absorbed
(b) Most of the mineral ions are absorbed passively
(c) All the mineral ions are actively absorbed
(d) All the mineral ions are passively absorbed

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 need to analyze the options provided and understand the mechanisms of ion absorption.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Ion Absorption**:
- Plants absorb mineral ions from the soil, which typically have a lower concentration of these ions compared to the inside of the plant cells. This creates a concentration gradient.

2. **Active vs. Passive Transport**:
- **Passive Transport**: This process does not require energy. It occurs when ions move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.
- **Active Transport**: This process requires energy (usually in the form of ATP) to move ions against their concentration gradient, from an area of lower concentration (soil) to an area of higher concentration (plant cells).

3. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **(a)** Most of the mineral ions are absorbed passively and actively absorbed.
- This statement is partially true but does not accurately reflect the predominant mechanism.
- **(b)** Most of the mineral ions are absorbed passively.
- This is incorrect because most mineral ions are absorbed actively due to the low concentration in the soil.
- **(c)** All the mineral ions are actively absorbed.
- This is the most accurate statement, as most mineral ions are indeed absorbed actively against the concentration gradient.
- **(d)** All the mineral ions are passively absorbed.
- This is incorrect, as it contradicts the need for active transport for most ions.

4. **Conclusion**:
- The correct answer is **(c)** All the mineral ions are actively absorbed.