Describe the similarities and differences between the absorption of ions in plants and the uptake of glucose in humans.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2016). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [max 6] (similarities)
2. large surface area/both elongated structures AW;
3. active transport/require energy/against concentration gradient;
4. both in solution;
5. both require a membrane ;
6. (differences)
7. root hairs ;
8. villi;
9. root hairs are single-celled;
10. villi are multicellular AW;
11. through cell walls in plants ORA ;
12. ions absorbed from the soil;
13. glucose absorbed from/in the intestines/digestive system;
14. [4] plants use nitrates ;
15. (and) carbohydrates/products of photosynthesis ;
16. to make their own amino acids/ORA ;
17. humans rely on proteins + from other organisms ;
18. have to be ingested/eaten/consumed ;
19. have to be digested to amino acids ;