Understanding Plant Root Functions 3.01

What is the primary function of root hairs in plants?

• To produce new cells

• To absorb water and nutrients

• To carry nutrients down the root

• To provide structural support

Which type of root is most effective in preventing soil erosion?

• Taproots

• Fibrous roots

• Adventitious roots

• Air roots

Explain how the structure of taproots supports their function in plants. Provide examples to support your explanation.

• Taproots grow straight down, allowing them to anchor the plant deeply and store nutrients. Examples include carrots and maple trees.

• Taproots spread out widely, providing a large surface area for nutrient absorption. Examples include lettuce and grass.

• Taproots grow above the soil, helping the plant avoid excess moisture. Examples include ivy.

• Taproots are shallow and dense, clinging to the soil to prevent erosion. Examples include lettuce and grass.

Identify the internal part of the root responsible for transporting water and nutrients up to the stem.

• Root cap

• Root hairs

• Phloem

• Xylem

Describe the role of adventitious roots in plant propagation and provide an example of a plant that uses this type of root.

• Adventitious roots grow in many locations on the plant, aiding in propagation. An example is ivy.

• Adventitious roots grow straight down, providing deep anchorage. An example is carrots.

• Adventitious roots are shallow and dense, preventing soil erosion. An example is grass.

• Adventitious roots grow above the soil, avoiding excess moisture. An example is lettuce.

What is the function of the root cap in plants?

• To absorb water and nutrients

• To produce new cells

• To carry nutrients down the root

• To anchor the plant

Compare and contrast the functions of phloem and xylem in the root system.

• Both phloem and xylem transport water and nutrients, but phloem carries them up to the stem while xylem carries them down the root.

• Phloem carries nutrients down the root, while xylem carries water and nutrients up to the stem.

• Phloem and xylem both produce new cells at the root tip.

• Phloem absorbs water and nutrients, while xylem anchors the plant.

Which type of root is characterized by growing out of the soil to avoid excess moisture?

• Taproots

• Fibrous roots

• Adventitious roots

• Air roots

Analyze how the structure of fibrous roots contributes to their effectiveness in controlling soil erosion.

• Fibrous roots grow straight down, anchoring the plant deeply and storing nutrients.

• Fibrous roots are shallow and dense, clinging firmly to the soil, which helps prevent erosion.

• Fibrous roots grow above the soil, avoiding excess moisture.

• Fibrous roots grow in many locations on the plant, aiding in propagation.

What is one of the primary functions of roots in plants?

• Photosynthesis

• Seed production

• Anchorage and support

• Flowering