OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

What is an advantage of the cell membrane structure in root hair cells?

1. It allows for easy transport of sugars

2. It facilitates the passage of minerals across

3. It increases turgor pressure

4. It acts as a barrier against pathogens

The correct answer is: It facilitates the passage of minerals across

The advantage of the cell membrane structure in root hair cells being that it facilitates the passage of minerals across is due to the specific properties and adaptations of these cells. Root hair cells have a large surface area due to their hair-like extensions, which enhances their ability to absorb water and dissolved minerals from the soil. The semi-permeable nature of the cell membrane allows selective transport, enabling the root hairs to efficiently take up essential minerals such as nitrate, potassium, and phosphate through active transport mechanisms. This active transport process is crucial, as many minerals are present in lower concentrations in the soil compared to the concentration inside the root hair cells. Therefore, the specific proteins and channels present in the cell membrane are key to facilitating this mineral uptake, ensuring that the plant has the necessary nutrients for growth and development. While other options may suggest benefits related to sugars, turgor pressure, or pathogen defense, they do not specifically connect to the unique function of root hair cells in the absorption of minerals, which is directly impacted by the structure and properties of the cell membrane.