Final answer:
The purpose of roots in biology is to anchor the plant, absorb water and nutrients, and transport them for growth. Root modifications include taproot systems, adventitious roots, and root nodules in some plants.
Step-by-step explanation:
In biology, the primary purpose of roots is to anchor the plant in the soil and absorb water and nutrients from the soil. They also transport these absorbed substances to different parts of the plant for growth and development. Roots often have modifications to carry out specialized functions, such as storage of food, support, and respiration.
One example of root modification is the taproot system found in plants like carrots and radishes. In this system, a long, thick primary root grows deep into the soil, providing stability and access to water and nutrients. Another example is the adventitious roots seen in plants like corn and sugarcane, where roots are modified to support the tall stems and prevent the plant from toppling over.
Root modifications can also include the presence of root nodules in certain plants, such as legumes. These nodules contain nitrogen-fixing bacteria, which convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that is usable by the plants for growth.
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