The part of the plant that absorbs water and nutrients from the soil is the "root." Roots anchor the plant in place and play a vital role in nutrient uptake and water absorption from the surrounding soil. They explore the soil and can extend to great lengths to access resources. Roots also store energy and nutrients, helping the plant survive during adverse conditions. The structure of roots varies greatly among plants, with some having deep taproots and others possessing fibrous root systems. The health and efficiency of root systems are critical for overall plant growth and development.