Root Tip

The end of a root which contains a root cap that protects the growing region of the apical meristem just behind the cap. The cells of the root cap are constantly being replaced by new cells, because with roots growing through a soil the cells on the cap will become worn and eroded, thereby need to be replaced to maintain the effectiveness of the root cap.

Located just behind the apical meristem is an area called the area or zone of elongation which also increases root length, and behind this is the area or zone of maturation in which root hairs are present. The root hairs increase the area in which a root system can absorb water and nutrients from the soil.