Answer: Fibrous roots spread wide and shallow, binding topsoil and preventing erosion better.
- A Tap roots penetrate much deeper, anchoring the plant firmly against strong winds
- B Fibrous roots spread wide and shallow, binding topsoil and preventing erosion better
- C Tap roots and fibrous roots are considered roughly equally effective at binding topsoil
- D Fibrous roots tend to develop mainly in consistently moist, well-irrigated soil conditions
Correct answer: B. Fibrous roots spread wide and shallow, binding topsoil and preventing erosion better
Explanation: Fibrous root systems spread extensively near the soil surface, binding topsoil particles and preventing soil erosion by wind and water. Grasses are particularly effective ground cover plants for this reason.
In a dicot stem, vascular bundles are arranged in a single ring (with cambium between xylem and phloem, enabling secondary growth); in a monocot stem, bundles are scattered throughout with no cambium, so monocots can't undergo secondary growth (no wood formation).
Concept context
External structure of roots, stems, and leaves plus internal tissue organization. High marks in Class 11 and NEET.