How do true roots like carrots differ structurally from potato tubers mentioned in storage organs?

Carrots are true taproots, a single, dominant root, while potatoes are modified, fleshy underground stems.

The distinction between true roots and tubers lies in their botanical origin and primary function development, even if both serve as underground energy storage for humans. A true root system, exemplified by carrots, parsnips, and beets, functions primarily as the plant's anchor and absorption apparatus for water and minerals from the soil. Carrots are specifically identified as taproots, meaning they are the main, dominant root growing vertically downward. Conversely, a tuber, like the potato, is not a true root structure but rather a modified, fleshy underground stem, often recognizable by its nodes or 'eyes' from which new plants can sprout. While both store energy—potatoes typically store starch, and true roots like carrots often store sugars—their fundamental tissue composition dictates that one is root tissue and the other is specialized stem tissue.