A typical root consists of four main regions from tip onwards which are as follows:
1. Root cap
2. Region of meristematic activity
3. Region of elongation
4. Region of maturation
Detailed Explanation:
Regions of Root:
1. Root cap:
The apex of the root is covered by a thimble-like structure called root cap.
It is multicellular and parenchymatous.
It protects the tender apex of the root as it makes its way through the soil.
They are rich in Golgi vesicles.
Due to the presence of the root cap at the apex, the growth of the root is subterminal.
2. Region of meristematic activity:
This layer is a few millimetres above the root cap.
It consists of thin-walled meristematic cells having dense protoplasm and a prominent nucleus.
These cells divide very rapidly to produce new cells.
3. Region of elongation:
The cells proximal to the meristematic region undergo rapid elongation and enlargement.
Responsible for the increase in the length of the root.
4. Region of maturation:
It lies proximal to the region of elongation.
Here, the elongated cells finally get differentiated and mature.
Some of the epidermal cells of this region differentiate to form fine, delicate and thread-like structures called the root hairs.
Root hairs help to increase the surface area of absorption of water and minerals from the soil.