Which structure protects the growing tip of a root?

Which structure protects the growing tip of a root?

• A. Guard cell
• B. Rootcap
• C. Stomata
• D. Terminal bud

Answer: (B)

The growing tip of a root is protected by the root cap, a specialized covering that sits at the very end of the root. This cap shields the delicate apical meristem—the cells driving new root growth—from abrasion as the root pushes through soil. It also contains gravity-sensing cells that help orient the root downward, guiding growth toward moisture. Additionally, the root cap secretes a lubricating mucilage that eases movement through soil. The other structures have different roles: guard cells regulate stomata on leaves, stomata are the openings for gas exchange, and a terminal bud is the shoot tip, not part of the root.

The growing tip of a root is protected by the root cap, a specialized covering that sits at the very end of the root. This cap shields the delicate apical meristem—the cells driving new root growth—from abrasion as the root pushes through soil. It also contains gravity-sensing cells that help orient the root downward, guiding growth toward moisture. Additionally, the root cap secretes a lubricating mucilage that eases movement through soil. The other structures have different roles: guard cells regulate stomata on leaves, stomata are the openings for gas exchange, and a terminal bud is the shoot tip, not part of the root.