IGCSE›Cambridge IGCSE Biology›Mind mapsWater UptakeCambridge IGCSE Biology: Mind mapStudy pack PDFAlso for this subtopic:Revision notesFlashcardsSubtopic testCover factsRoot hair cellsLong, thin extension on root surfaceLarge surface areaAbsorb water and mineral ionsEntry point for water into the plantPathwayRoot hair cells absorb water from soilCross the root cortex cellsEnter the xylemMove up to leaf mesophyll cellsWater uptakeroots to leavesStain investigationCut stem placed in water with a dyeDye drawn up through the xylemCut sections to see how far it reachedColoured strands show xylem carries waterTranspiration pullWater lost from leaves through stomataCreates a pull on the water columnCohesion holds water molecules togetherColumn drawn up the xylem against gravityExam tipsWhy root hairs work: large surface areaName the pathway in the correct orderDye stains xylem, not phloem