ROOTS-AND-ROOT-HAIRS.pptx

Exploring Plant Cells: Roots and Root Hairs  Introduction to Plant Cells What are roots? Question: Why do you think roots are important for plants? What Are Roots? Roots are the underground part of a plant Two main types: tap roots and fibrous roots What Are Roots? Functions of Root...

Exploring Plant Cells: Roots and Root Hairs  Introduction to Plant Cells What are roots? Question: Why do you think roots are important for plants? What Are Roots? Roots are the underground part of a plant Two main types: tap roots and fibrous roots What Are Roots? Functions of Roots Main functions: 1. Anchor the plant in the soil 2. Absorb water and nutrients 3. Store food for the plant  Root Structure Question: Which part of the root do you think is responsible for making the root longer?  Root Structure Roots have several important parts: 1. Root cap: protects the root as it grows through soil 2. Meristem: area of cell division for root growth 3. Zone of elongation: where cells stretch and grow 4. Zone of maturation: where root hairs develop  What Are Root Hairs? Root hairs are tiny, hair-like extensions of root cells They greatly increase the surface area of the root This allows the plant to absorb more water and nutrients  What Are Root Hairs? Root hairs are extremely thin and delicate Question: Why do you think having more surface area helps the plant?  Functions of Root Hairs Main jobs of root hairs: 1. Absorb water from the soil 2. Take in dissolved minerals and nutrients 3. Increase the root's contact with soil particles  Functions of Root Hairs Main jobs of root hairs: Root hairs are constantly being replaced as the root grows Question: How do you think root hairs help plants survive in dry conditions?  Root Hair Cells Root hair cells have special features: Long, thin shape to maximize surface area Thin cell walls for easy absorption  Root Hair Cells Large vacuole to store absorbed water Many mitochondria for energy production Question: Why do you think root hair cells need a lot of energy?  The Journey of Water Water's path through the root: 1. Enters through root hairs 2. Moves through root cells 3. Reaches the xylem (plant's water transport system) 4. Travels up to the rest of the plant Question: What do you think might happen if a plant's root hairs were damaged?  Adaptations of Roots and Root Hairs Plants have adapted their roots for different environments: Desert plants: long roots to reach deep water  Adaptations of Roots and Root Hairs Wetland plants: short roots with air spaces Climbing plants: roots that can attach to surfaces  Adaptations of Roots and Root Hairs Question: Can you think of any plants with unique root systems?  Caring for Plant Roots Tips for keeping plant roots healthy: Water regularly but don't overwater Use well-draining soil  Caring for Plant Roots Use well-draining soil Avoid disturbing the soil around plants Be gentle when transplanting Question: How might overwatering harm a plant's roots?  Review and Reflection We've learned about: The structure and function of roots The importance of root hairs How roots and root hairs help plants survive Final question: How has learning about roots and root hairs changed your understanding of how plants work?