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Difference Between Stems and Roots

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Difference Between Root and Stem with Examples

Plants have two main parts—stems and roots—that help them grow and survive. The stem supports the plant, carries water and nutrients, and helps in reproduction. The root anchors the plant in the soil, absorbs water and minerals, and stores food. While stems grow above the ground and have leaves, roots mostly grow underground and do not have leaves. Understanding the Difference Between Stems and Roots helps in learning how plants function.


Key Differences Between Stems and Roots

Feature

Stem

Root

Location

Usually above the ground

Usually below the ground

Function

Supports plant, transports nutrients

Absorbs water, anchors plant

Presence of Leaves

Has leaves, nodes, and buds

No leaves, nodes, or buds

Growth Direction

Grows upward towards light

Grows downward into the soil

Examples

Potato (modified stem), bamboo

Carrot, radish, turnip


Essential Study Materials for NEET UG Success

FAQs on Difference Between Stems and Roots

1. What is the difference between a stem and a root?

A stem grows above the ground and supports the plant, while a root grows underground and absorbs water and minerals.

2. What is the difference between root and stem structures?

The stem has nodes, internodes, and buds, while the root has root hairs and a cap at the tip for protection.

3. Is turmeric a root or stem?

Turmeric is a stem. It is an underground modified stem called a rhizome, which stores food and grows horizontally.

4. Is a potato a stem or root?

A potato is a stem. It is a tuber, a modified underground stem that stores starch.

5. Is ginger a root or stem?

Ginger is a stem, specifically a rhizome, that grows underground and helps in plant reproduction.

6. What is the main difference between a root word and a root?

A root word is the basic part of a word in a language, while a root in a plant is an organ that absorbs water and nutrients.

7. What are the two main differences between roots and stems?

  1. Stems grow upward, while roots grow downward.

  2. Stems have leaves and buds, but roots do not.

8. Can a root be a stem?

No, roots and stems have different functions. However, some stems grow underground and look like roots, such as ginger and potato.

9. What is the difference between stem and root tubers?

Stem tubers (like potatoes) store food and grow from the stem, while root tubers (like sweet potatoes) store food in the roots.

10. What is an example of a root word?

In English, "act" is a root word, as it forms words like "action" and "react."

11. What is the difference between a root and a lemma?

A root is the basic form of a word, while a lemma is the dictionary form of a word, often including variations.