How do plants primarily acquire nutrients from the soil?

• A. Through seeds
• B. Through roots via mass flow and diffusion, absorbed by root hairs
• C. Through leaves
• D. Through stems

Answer: (B)

Nutrient uptake from soil happens mainly through the root system, with root hairs playing a crucial role. Dissolved minerals in the soil water move toward the roots by mass flow as water is absorbed and transported upward, and by diffusion as nutrients spread down their concentration gradient toward the root surface. This brings ions into contact with the root epidermis, where transport proteins move them into the root cells. Root hairs expand the surface area available for absorption, making uptake more efficient. Once inside, minerals can move through the root to the xylem and be carried to the rest of the plant, while the accompanying water assists this transport. Leaves and stems don’t directly absorb soil nutrients, and seeds aren’t the pathway for ongoing nutrient uptake from soil.