Chapter 5, Problem 1RQ

Summary Introduction

To write:

Difference between the root hair and tiny root. Functions of root hair.

Introduction:

Roots are the parts of the vascular plants that remain underground. The main functions of the root are holding the plants, absorbing water and minerals from the soil. Roots also store the food for future purpose. Roots generally have root caps and branches also emerge from the root.

Explanation of Solution

A root (tiny root also) is a multicellular tissue. In this, the cells are organized in multilayers. Moreover, from the root branches also emerge out. It has a root cap and at its tip zone of elongation is also present. A root hair is a singular cell only present at the tip of the roots. It is cytoplasm free cell containing a nucleus at its base. It lacks the root cap and zone of elongation. They are the extension of epidermal cells. They are found in the region of maturation of roots.

The function of root hair includes the absorption of water due to its large surface area. Due to its length, it can penetrate the soil particles and prevent the plant from entering bacteria. Water passes into the root hair by the osmosis.

Conclusion

Tiny root is a multicellular tissue and root hair contains only one cell. From the root, branches emerge out and from root hair, no branches emerge out. Root caps are not present in the root hair but present in tiny root. Root hair lacks cytoplasm and has a nucleus at the base.

The function of root hair is to absorb water from the soil particles. They penetrate into the soil particles so that bacteria cannot enter into the plants through them. Water enters into the root by osmosis.