Uptake of Mineral Elements

Plants absorb a large number of minerals from soil. The uptake of mineral ions by the roots may be passive or active.

Passive Absorption

It is the initial and rapid phase wherein ions are absorbed into the outer space of the cells, through the apoplast pathway. It does not require use of any metabolic energy.

Active Absorption

It is the second phase of ion uptake. The ions are taken in slowly into the inner space the symplast of cells. It needs the expenditure of metabolic energy. 

The movement of ions is called flux. When the ions move into the cells, it is called influx and the outward movement of ions is called efflux. The mineral ions absorbed by the root system are translocated through the xylem vessels to other parts of the plant.