Ginger is an underground stem. It is distinguished from root because :

Options

A. It lacks chlorophyll
B. It stores food
C. It has nodes and internodes
D. It has xylem and vessels

Answer

To understand why ginger is classified as an underground stem rather than a root, we can break down the distinguishing features step-by-step:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Scientific Classification**:
- Ginger is scientifically known as *Zingiber officinale*. It is a type of underground stem known as a rhizome.

2. **Definition of Rhizome**:
- A rhizome is a lateral, horizontal branch of a stem that grows underground. It can be elongated and may grow horizontally, vertically, or obliquely.

3. **Storage Function**:
- Rhizomes serve as organs of perennation, meaning they store food during unfavorable conditions and can sprout new plants when conditions become favorable.

4. **Presence of Nodes and Internodes**:
- One of the key features that distinguish ginger (and other rhizomes) from roots is the presence of nodes and internodes. Nodes are points on the stem where leaves or branches originate, while internodes are the segments between two nodes.

5. **Comparison with Roots**:
- Roots do not have nodes and internodes. This absence is a significant distinguishing feature. Therefore, the presence of nodes and internodes in ginger confirms it is a stem.

6. **Other Features**:
- While ginger lacks chlorophyll, which is a characteristic of many roots, this alone does not distinguish it from roots since some roots can also lack chlorophyll. Additionally, both roots and stems can store food, so this feature is not exclusive to stems.

7. **Conclusion**:
- The definitive reason ginger is classified as an underground stem is because it has nodes and internodes, which are absent in roots.

### Final Answer:
Ginger is distinguished from roots because it has nodes and internodes, which are characteristics of stems.