Which of the following are functions of the root system?

The root system primarily serves two critical functions: absorption and storage. Roots are essential for extracting water and nutrients from the soil, which are vital for the overall health and growth of the plant. They achieve this through a complex network of root hairs that increase the surface area in contact with the soil, enhancing the plant's ability to take up moisture and essential minerals.

In addition to absorption, roots also play a significant role in storage. Many plants store carbohydrates and other nutrients in their root systems, which can be utilized during periods of dormancy or when the above-ground portions of the plant are not actively growing. This function is particularly important for perennial plants that need to survive adverse conditions, such as winter or drought.

The other options included functions that do not accurately describe what the root system does. For instance, photosynthesis occurs primarily in the leaves, not the roots. Similarly, conduction typically refers to the movement of water and nutrients through the xylem and phloem in the stems and leaves rather than a function of roots themselves. Moreover, pollination is a process associated with flowers and reproductive structures, while defense mechanisms are often linked to physical and chemical traits in other parts of the plant. Emotion is not a biological function associated with plants at all