- A Movement of mineral ions from a region of high concentration to low concentration
- B Movement of minerals against concentration gradient using ATP and carrier proteins
- C Movement of minerals occurring mainly through the apoplast cell wall pathway
- D Largely unregulated random diffusion of mineral ions across the cell membrane
Correct answer: B. Movement of minerals against concentration gradient using ATP and carrier proteins
Explanation: Most mineral ions are absorbed by active transport - against their concentration gradient, requiring ATP and specific carrier proteins (permeases) in the plasma membrane. This allows plants to accumulate minerals at concentrations far higher than in soil.
Concept context
Essential mineral elements, their roles and deficiency symptoms. Nitrogen fixation and soil nutrition.