How does geotropism affect tree growth?

Geotropism is a plant's growth response to gravity. In trees, this phenomenon plays a crucial role in how roots and shoots develop. Roots exhibit positive geotropism, meaning they grow downward in the direction of gravitational pull, which helps anchor the tree and allows them to access water and nutrients from the soil. Conversely, stems and branches display negative geotropism, growing upward away from gravity to reach sunlight, which is essential for photosynthesis. This understanding of geotropism is foundational to comprehending how trees adapt their growth patterns to thrive in their environment.

The other options do not accurately describe geotropism. For example, while trees do grow towards sunlight, that growth is regulated by phototropism rather than geotropism. Roots growing upwards would contradict the fundamental nature of geotropism, as it specifically drives them downward. Limitations on water absorption are more related to root structure and environmental factors than to the influence of gravity on root growth direction. Thus, recognizing the correct role of gravity in tree development is essential for understanding tree biology and growth dynamics.