3.

2 # Active Transport
1. Active Transport:

- Active transport: is a cellular process involving the movement of

molecules or ions across a cell membrane, specifically from a
region of lower concentration to a region of higher concentration.
This process is conducted against the natural concentration
gradient, requiring the input of energy.

- Energy Source: The energy necessary for active transport is

obtained from the process of cellular respiration, during which
cells generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP serves as the
primary energy currency that powers active transport processes.

- Against Concentration Gradient: Unlike passive processes such

as diffusion, active transport actively works against the natural
flow of molecules or ions, requiring energy expenditure.

2. Importance of Active Transport in Root Hair Cells:

Context: Root hair cells are specialized structures in plant roots,

specifically adapted for the absorption of water and minerals from
the soil.

Ion Uptake: Active transport is indispensable for root hair cells

in the uptake of ions, especially minerals, from the soil. These ions
are often present in higher concentrations in the soil than within
the plant's root cells.
Against Concentration Gradient: Root hair cells utilize active
transport to push ions against their natural concentration
gradient, moving them from the soil (lower concentration) into
the plant root (higher concentration). This mechanism ensures
the efficient absorption of essential nutrients necessary for the
plant's growth and metabolic processes.

Energy Requirement: The process of active transport in root hair

cells necessitates the expenditure of energy obtained from cellular
respiration. This energy is specifically used to pump ions into the
root cells against their concentration gradient.

Nutrient Absorption: Active transport is instrumental in ensuring

the effective absorption of nutrients, particularly minerals, by the
plant's roots. These absorbed nutrients are subsequently
transported to various plant tissues, sustaining growth, and
supporting metabolic functions.