The metabolic activities of root cells are the main cause of water absorption in

Options

A. Passive absorption
B. Active absorption
C. Both passive and active absorption
D. None of the above

Answer

To solve the question regarding the metabolic activities of root cells and their role in water absorption, we can break down the process step by step:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Water Absorption in Plants**:
Water absorption in plants primarily occurs through the roots. The root cells play a crucial role in this process.

2. **Types of Water Absorption**:
There are two main types of water absorption: passive absorption and active absorption.
- **Passive Absorption**: This occurs when water moves into the root cells through osmosis without the expenditure of energy.
- **Active Absorption**: This involves the movement of water against a concentration gradient, requiring energy (ATP) produced by the metabolic activities of root cells.

3. **Role of Metabolic Activities**:
The metabolic activities of root cells, such as respiration and the active transport of ions, create a concentration gradient. This gradient facilitates the uptake of water from the soil into the root cells.

4. **Pathway of Water Movement**:
Water enters the root hairs, moves through the cortex, and reaches the pericycle, eventually entering the xylem. The xylem then transports water upward to other parts of the plant.

5. **Conclusion**:
Since the metabolic activities of root cells are essential for creating the necessary conditions for water absorption, the correct answer to the question is that these activities are the main cause of **active absorption**.

### Final Answer:
The metabolic activities of root cells are the main cause of water absorption in **active absorption**.

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