Question

What can be concluded about how chloride and nitrate ions enter the roots?

Answer 1

Answer:

Natural inputs of chlorine (Cl) to soils come mainly from rainwater, sea spray, dust and air pollution. In addition, human practices, such as irrigation and fertilization, contribute significantly to Cl deposition. In the soil solution, Cl  occurs predominantly as the chloride anion (Cl). The Cl anion does not form complexes readily, and shows little  affinity (or specificity) in its adsorption to soil components. Thus, Cl movement within the soil is largely determined  by water flows. Chlorine is an essential micronutrient for higher plants. It is present mainly as Cl. Chloride is a major  osmotically active solute in the vacuole and is involved in both turgor and osmoregulation. In the cytoplasm it may  regulate the activities of key enzymes. In addition, Cl also acts as a counter anion, and Cl fluxes are implicated in the  stabilization of membrane potential, regulation of intracellular pH gradients and electrical excitability.

Nitrate ions are transported up the plant in the xylem and can be used to make amino acids etc. in the leaf cells. Nitrates are not the only mineral ions taken up by plants in their roots.