Final answer:
The statement that prefixes and suffixes do not change the meaning of a word is false. They are essential for modifying the meaning and form of root words, as exemplified by the word 'hypertension'.
Step-by-step explanation:
The assertion that the prefix or the suffix does not change the meaning of a word is false. Prefixes and suffixes often modify the meaning of the root word to which they are attached. Taking the example of 'hypertension', the prefix 'hyper-' means 'high' or 'over', and when combined with the root word 'tension', it alters its meaning to refer to abnormally high blood pressure.
Similarly, adding a suffix can change the form of a word, as seen when '-ing' is added to a verb to create a present participle, or '-ed' to make the past tense. Therefore, both prefixes and suffixes play a critical role in shaping the meaning of the words they are part of.