[Campbell Biology P.944] Why do organisms, such as plants with root hairs and vertebrates wi... | Practice Question

Why do organisms, such as plants with root hairs and vertebrates with intestinal villi, possess highly increased surface areas in structures involved in absorption?

  • A: To maximize the efficiency of nutrient uptake from the environment or digestive system.
  • B: To provide structural support for the absorbing organs.
  • C: To prevent water loss from the body or plant.
  • D: To increase the rate of waste product excretion.

Explanation

The text states: 'The root hairs of plants left and the villi projections that line the intestines of vertebrates right increase the surface area available for absorption.' The purpose is to allow organisms to 'absorb nutrients' efficiently, which is directly linked to maximizing uptake from the environment or digestive system.