Question

Directly into the quartzite, have clusters of fine hairs

near the root tip; further analysis indicated that these
hairs secrete both malic and citric acids. The
researchers hypothesize that the plants depend on
dissolving underlying rock with these acids, as the
process not only creates channels for continued
growth but also releases phosphates that provide the
vital nutrient phosphorus.
Which finding, if true, would most directly support
the researchers' hypothesis?
A) Other species in the Velloziaceae family are
found in terrains with more soil but have root
structures similar to those of B. tomentosa and
B. macrantha.
B) Though B. tomentosa and B. macrantha both
secrete citric and malic acids, each species
produces the acids in different proportions.
C) The roots of B. tomentosa and B. macrantha
carve new entry points into rocks even when
cracks in the surface are readily available.
D) B. tomentosa and B. macrantha thrive even when
transferred to the surfaces of rocks that do not
contain phosphates.

Answer 1

The finding that would most directly support the researchers' hypothesis is that the roots of B. tomentosa and B. macrantha carve new entry points into rocks even when cracks in the surface are readily available.

Step-by-step explanation:

The finding that would most directly support the researchers' hypothesis is Option C) The roots of B. tomentosa and B. macrantha carve new entry points into rocks even when cracks in the surface are readily available. This finding suggests that the plants intentionally create channels in the rocks using their acid-secreting hairs, even when easier paths through cracks are available. This supports the idea that the plants depend on dissolving the rock with these acids to create channels for growth and release phosphates.

Learn more about Plant adaptation to grow in quartzite rocks