Question

Write notes on Root pressure

Answer 1

The pressure created in the root cells is called a root pressure.

• Root cells are in contact with water and minerals in the soil. But the concentration inside the cells and the concentration in the surrounding soil is different from each other and thus there is concentration gradient created.
• Due to concentration gradient, the water and minerals from the surrounding areas enter in the root cells.
• Due to this, the root cells become turgid and exert pressure on the adjacent cells.
• Due to root pressure, the water and minerals enter the xylem present in the roots. To reduce this difference in concentration they are continuously pushed forward. This continuous movement creates a water column that is continuously pushed ahead.
• The pressure exerted by the root cells thus is sufficient to lift the water up in small shrubs and small trees.