This is the primary root. It originates from the embryo in the seed. Taproots are very deep and penetrating. Fibrous root systems are shallower root systems than taproots and no one root is more prominent. At the apex cells are actively dividing and producing new cells.
Cells are small and cuboidal and have apparent nuclei.
Behind this zone, the cells elongate, differentiate and take up water. As the root penetrates the soil the cells of the root-cap slough off. All of the tip end of the root including the cap is covered by a slimy sheath. This lubricates the root during it's passage through the soil. Root cap cells detect gravity.