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Thursday, 02 April 2026
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One significant difference between roots and stem is that

One significant difference between roots and stem is that
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  • A Branch roots originate in the pericycle while stem do not
  • B Stems are always bove the ground while root are always below the ground
  • C Stems are positively geotropic while roots are negatively geotropic
  • D Stem are sometime used for storage while roots are never used
  • E Stems grow in both length and circumference while root grow only in length
Correct Answer: Option A
Explanation:
A. Branch roots originate in the pericycle while stems do not

In plants, branch roots arise from the pericycle, which is a layer of cells located just inside the endodermis in the root. Stems do not have this structure, and branch stems typically arise from axillary buds on the stem.

Here’s why the other options are incorrect:

B. Stems are always above the ground while roots are always below the ground – This is not true because some plants, like aquatic plants, may have stems submerged in water, and some plants have aerial roots above the ground.

C. Stems are positively geotropic while roots are negatively geotropic – This is incorrect. Roots are positively geotropic (they grow towards gravity), while stems are negatively geotropic (they grow away from gravity).

D. Stems are sometimes used for storage while roots are never used – Roots can also store food, as in the case of carrots and sweet potatoes, while stems in some plants are used for storage (e.g., potatoes).

E. Stems grow in both length and circumference while roots grow only in length – Roots also grow in circumference at the root cap and through lateral root development, not just in length.

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