Back
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

root

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

A root is an underground organ of a plant that typically grows downward. Roots anchor the plant in the soil and absorb water and nutrients from the soil. Roots also store food for the plant to use during times of drought.

There are many different types of roots, each with its own unique function. Some common types of roots include:

  • Taproots: Taproots are the main root of a plant. They grow straight down into the soil and can be very long. Taproots anchor the plant in the soil and absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
  • Fibrous roots: Fibrous roots are a network of thin roots that grow from the base of the plant. They are not as long as taproots, but they are more numerous. Fibrous roots absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
  • Pneumatophores: Pneumatophores are specialised roots that grow above the water. They have air chambers that allow the roots to breathe. Pneumatophores are found in plants that live in swampy areas.

Roots are an essential part of a plant's anatomy. They help the plant to survive and to thrive.

How can the word be used?

The farmer rooted the plant in the ground.

root

Different forms of the word

Noun:

  • the part of a plant that grows underground and absorbs water and nutrients from the soil.
  • the source or origin of something.
  • a fundamental principle or idea.

Verb:

  • cause something to grow or develop.
  • find the root of a problem.

Etymology

The word "root" comes from the Old English word "rot", which also means "root".

The first recorded use of the word "root" in English was in the 8th century.

The word "root" is a Germanic word, and it is related to the Dutch word "wortel" and the German word "Wurzel", both of which mean "root".

The literal meaning of the word "root" is "something that grows underground".

The word "root" can be used to refer to the underground part of a plant, as well as to the source or origin of something.

It can also be used figuratively to refer to a fundamental principle or idea.

The word "root" is a common word that is used in everyday speech. It is a useful word for understanding how plants grow and develop, as well as for understanding the basic principles of things.

Question

Why is the root important for a plant?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Describe the structure and functions of plant roots, highlighting their role in water and nutrient uptake.

Answer:

Plant roots are essential structures that play a crucial role in the growth and survival of plants. They consist of several key parts: the root cap, root hairs, and the root itself. The root cap protects the growing tip of the root, while root hairs increase the root's surface area for absorption.

Roots serve multiple functions. One of their primary roles is to anchor the plant in the soil, providing stability against wind and other forces. Additionally, roots absorb water and nutrients from the soil, supporting the plant's growth and metabolism. Root hairs, with their large surface area, are specialized for this absorption process.

Water uptake occurs through a process called osmosis, where water molecules move from areas of lower solute concentration (inside the root) to areas of higher solute concentration (in the soil). This allows the plant to maintain proper hydration and facilitate nutrient transport. Nutrients are absorbed through active transport, where the plant expends energy to move essential minerals against their concentration gradient.