What process do plant roots use to absorb water and minerals?

The process that plant roots use to absorb water and minerals is primarily facilitated by xylem transportation. Xylem is a type of vascular tissue in plants that is responsible for the upward movement of water and dissolved minerals from the roots through the stem to the leaves and other parts of the plant. The roots absorb water from the soil, which then enters the xylem vessels and is transported throughout the plant.

This process is crucial for maintaining the plant's hydration, supporting photosynthesis, and helping the plant grow healthy and strong. It is also important to note that the absorption occurs through osmosis, where water moves from an area of lower concentration to an area of higher concentration inside the root cells, effectively transporting the necessary nutrients dissolved in that water.

In contrast, photosynthesis refers to how plants convert sunlight into chemical energy, transpiration is the process of water vapor loss from the plant, and geotropism describes the growth response of plants to gravity. While these processes play significant roles in plant health and functionality, they do not directly relate to the absorption of water and minerals by the roots.