Question

The function of the root cap is
(a) Protection of root tip and control of geotropic movement
(b) Storage of food products
(c) Absorption of nutrients
(d) None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: The root cap is like tissue at the tip of a plant root that secretes mucilage to simplify the movement of the root cap through the soil. Root cap contains statocytes which are required in gravity perception in plants.

Complete answer: Root cap protects the growing root tip of plants and control of geotropic movement. The purpose of the root cap is to enable the downward growth of the root cap. The root cap is covering the sensitive tissue within the root cap. It also plays an important role in communication with the soil microbiota.

Additional information: 1. The function of the root cap is to hide and protect the cells at the top of the root cap of a plant. 2. It also assists in growth because of the secretion of a lubricant that permits better movement through the soil. 3. Most plants contain root caps. 4. Root cap enables geo perception or gravitropism. 5. Root caps consist of masses of parenchymal cells. 6. Statocytes during this tissue assist the plant in gravity perception because it is growing. 7. Plant organ directs root cap growth, reducing friction against the soil, sensing gravity, and protecting root cap meristem. 8. A replacement plant organ cell layer is made via the periclinal division of proximal stem cells, while the oldest cell layer is located at the outermost position dehisces. 

So, the correct answer is ‘protection of root tip and control of geotropic movement’.

Note: The plant organ is additionally called a calyptra. The root cap is absent in some parasitic plants and a few aquatic plants, during which a sac-like structure called root pocket may form instead.