Roots in Plants

Roots are an essential part of a plant's structure and function. They anchor the plant in the soil and absorb water and nutrients from the soil. There are two main types of roots: taproots and fibrous roots.

Taproots

Taproots have a main root that grows straight down into the soil, with smaller lateral roots branching off from the main root. Plants with taproots include carrots, radishes, and dandelions.

Fibrous Roots

Fibrous roots have a network of thin, branching roots that spread out near the surface of the soil. Grasses and many other types of plants have fibrous roots.

Functions of Roots

Roots serve several important functions for plants:

• Anchorage: Roots anchor the plant in the soil, providing stability and support.
• Absorption: Roots absorb water and nutrients from the soil, which are essential for the plant's growth and survival.
• Storage: Some plants store food and nutrients in their roots, such as carrots and beets.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember about roots:

1. What are the two main types of roots? Describe each type.
2. What are the functions of roots in plants?
3. Give examples of plants with taproots and fibrous roots.
4. How do roots help to anchor a plant in the soil?
5. Explain the role of roots in absorbing water and nutrients from the soil.

[Roots] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

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