Final answer:
Plants need roots to respire in order to obtain oxygen, release carbon dioxide, and convert stored sugars into energy through cellular respiration. Root respiration is also crucial for nutrient uptake from the soil.
Step-by-step explanation:
Plants need roots to respire in order to obtain oxygen and release carbon dioxide. Respiration in plants occurs at the cellular level, just like in animals, and is important for the production of energy. In the roots, respiration takes place in specialized cells called root hairs, which are in close contact with the soil.
During respiration, roots take in oxygen through tiny openings in their cells called stomata and release carbon dioxide as a waste product. This process is vital for the root cells to convert stored sugars into energy through cellular respiration.
Additionally, root respiration is essential for nutrient uptake. As the roots respire, they create a gradient that helps draw essential nutrients into the root cells from the soil.
Learn more about Root Respiration