IGCSEScienceCambridge (CIE)Combined ScienceBiologyRevision Notes8. Transport in PlantsTransport in PlantsRoot Hair Cells

Root Hair Cells (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Combined Science: Biology): Revision Note

Exam code: 0653

Written by: Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewed by: Jenna Quinn

Updated on 27 August 2026

Root hair cells

Root hairs are single-celled extensions of epidermis cells in the root
They grow between soil particles and absorb water and minerals from the soil
Water enters the root hair cells by osmosis
This happens because soil water has a higher water potential than the cytoplasm of the root hair cell

Diagram of a plant root showing a plant (organs labelled), a cross section of the roots (transport vessels labelled) and an enlarged image of a root showing root hair cells in soil. — **Structure of the roots**

The root hair increases the surface area of the cells significantly
This large surface area is important as it increases the rate of the absorption of water by osmosis and mineral ions by active transport

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Author: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Content Creator

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

Reviewer: Jenna Quinn

Expertise: Content Creator

Jenna studied at Cardiff University before training to become a science teacher at the University of Bath specialising in Biology (although she loves teaching all three sciences at GCSE level!). Teaching is her passion, and with 10 years experience teaching across a wide range of specifications – from GCSE and A Level Biology in the UK to IGCSE and IB Biology internationally – she knows what is required to pass those Biology exams.