Root

The root is the part of the plant that grows below the soil and helps anchor the plant in the ground. When a seed starts to grow, two important parts appear:

• Radicle: This is the part that grows downward into the soil, forming the root.
• Plumule: This is the part that grows upward and forms the shoot, or stem.

The taproot is the main root that forms from the radicle and grows deep into the soil. From this main root, smaller secondary roots spread out in all directions, helping the plant stay firmly rooted in the ground.

Near the tip of the root, there are tiny, hair-like structures called root hairs. These root hairs help the plant absorb water and nutrients from the soil. The very tip of the root is delicate and keeps growing, so it has a root cap that protects it from injury as it pushes through the soil.

Formation of root

Taproot

1. Aim: To observe and understand the process of germination in seeds.

2. Requirements: Conical flask, crumpled paper, water (to moisten the paper), and moth beans or gram seeds (soaked)

3. Procedure

• Moisten a ball of crumpled paper with water and place it at the bottom of the conical flask.
• Place some soaked moth beans or gram seeds between the moistened paper and the inner wall of the conical flask.
• Keep the flask in a warm place, ensuring the paper remains moist but not too wet.
• Observe the seeds daily for 2-3 days, noting any changes.

4. Observation: After 2-3 days, you will notice the seeds begin to sprout. Roots and shoots will emerge from the seeds.

5. Conclusion: The experiment demonstrates the germination process, where soaked seeds begin to grow when provided with moisture and warmth. The seeds sprout, forming roots and shoots, showing how plants begin their life cycle.