Which of the following is an adaptation that enhances the uptake of water and minerals by roots?
a. Mycorrhizae
b. Pumping through plasmodesmata
c. Active uptake by vessel elements
d. Rhythmic contractions by cells in the root cortex

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of roots in plants: Roots are responsible for absorbing water and minerals from the soil, which are essential for plant growth and survival.
2. Identify the term 'adaptation': In biology, an adaptation is a trait that has evolved to enhance the survival or reproduction of an organism in its environment.
3. Examine each option: a. Mycorrhizae are symbiotic associations between fungi and plant roots that enhance nutrient and water absorption. b. Pumping through plasmodesmata refers to the movement of substances between plant cells, but not directly related to uptake from soil. c. Active uptake by vessel elements is not a typical mechanism for root absorption. d. Rhythmic contractions by cells in the root cortex are not a recognized method for enhancing water and mineral uptake.
4. Focus on mycorrhizae: Mycorrhizae increase the surface area for absorption and help in accessing nutrients that are otherwise difficult for roots to absorb directly.
5. Conclude that mycorrhizae are the adaptation that enhances the uptake of water and minerals by roots, as they form a beneficial relationship with the plant, improving nutrient acquisition.

Key Concepts

Mycorrhizae

Mycorrhizae are symbiotic associations between fungi and plant roots that enhance water and mineral uptake. The fungi extend the root system's reach into the soil, increasing the surface area for absorption and facilitating access to nutrients like phosphorus, which are otherwise difficult for plants to obtain.

Plasmodesmata

Plasmodesmata are microscopic channels that traverse the cell walls of plant cells, allowing for the transport and communication between them. While they facilitate the movement of substances, they are not directly involved in pumping water and minerals from the soil into the roots, as this process primarily involves other mechanisms like mycorrhizae.

Active Uptake

Active uptake refers to the energy-dependent process by which cells transport substances against a concentration gradient. In the context of roots, this involves the use of ATP to move minerals from the soil into the root cells, but vessel elements are not involved in this process; they primarily function in water transport.