Images from Purves et al. Not all bacteria utilize the above route of nitrogen fixation. Many that live free in the soil, utilize other chemical pathways. Nitrogen uptake and conversion by various soil bacteria. 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.