Images from Purves et al. Roots have extensions of the root epidemal cells known as root hairs . Role of the root hairs in increasing the surface area of roots to promote increased uptake of water and minerals from the soil. Image from Purves et al. Back to Top Animals have a circulatory system that transports fluids, chemicals, and nutrients around within the animal body.
Root hairs are thin-walled extensions of the epidermal cells in roots.
They provide increased surface area and thus more efficient absorption of water and minerals. Water and dissolved mineral nutrients enter the plant via two routes. Structure of a typical root. The paths of water into the xylem of a root. Image from Purves et al.