Geotropism

/dʒiˈɑtrəˌpɪzəm/ noun

The growth response of plants to gravity, with roots typically growing downward (positive geotropism) and shoots growing upward (negative geotropism). This ensures proper plant orientation regardless of seed position.

From Greek 'geo' (earth), 'tropos' (turn), and 'ismos' (condition) - meaning 'earth-turning condition.' The term was coined in the 19th century as botanists began understanding plant responses to environmental stimuli.

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