What is the primary function of root hairs?

Root hairs primarily serve the essential function of absorbing water and minerals from the soil. These tiny, hair-like structures extend from the root's surface and increase the root's surface area, enabling more efficient uptake of water and essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This absorption is vital for the plant's overall growth and development, as water absorbed through root hairs is crucial for various physiological processes, including photosynthesis and nutrient transport.

While stabilizing the soil, assisting in photosynthesis, and providing support are important aspects of a plant's survival and development, none of these roles are the primary function of root hairs. Stabilization is more related to the overall root system and its interaction with the soil, photosynthesis involves the leaves and chlorophyll, and support is provided by the stem and root structure. Hence, the correct answer emphasizes the specific role of root hairs in nutrient and water acquisition.