Page 66 - Viva ICSE Science 4 : E-book

Root System

The root system consists of only roots. Roots grow below the ground and hold the plant
in a fi xed place. Diff erent plants have diff erent kinds of roots. Taproots and fi brous roots

are the two main types of roots.

Taproot is a long and thick root that grows straight downwards into
the soil, and produces several smaller thin roots from it. Bean, mustard,
radish and carrot have taproots. This root system is mainly found in

dicot plants.

Fibrous root consists of a number of thin roots that grow out in
many directions from the base of the stem. Onion, grass, maize and
rice have fi brous roots. This root system is mainly found in monocot

plants.

Functions of root

• Root holds the plant fi rmly in its place.

• It keeps the soil in place by preventing soil erosion.

• Roots absorb water and minerals from soil. Absorption is mainly through their fi ne
root hair. Taproot goes deep inside the soil to absorb water. Fibrous root does not go

deep inside the soil, but it has numerous branching roots that absorb more water
from soil.

• They are also modifi ed to store food in many plants, such as carrot, radish and sweet
potato.

TIME TO REVISE

1. Name a vegetable which is a modifi ed root to store food.
2. Name the two main types of roots.

3. Which type of root is found in dicot plants?

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