<P> The roots fix the plant in the soil giving it support but the most important and life supporting function of the roots is to absorb </P> <P> (A) water and (B) mineral nutrients from the soil, and conduct them into the stem for supply to the leaves, flowers, fruits, etc...</P> <P> A. NEED OF WATER </P> <P> Besides being a constituent of Protoplasm, water is needed inside the plant body for 4 purposes: Photosynthesis, Transpiration, Transportation, Mechanical stiffness . </P>

What part of the root absorbs water and minerals