Question

which describes a likely advantage of the roots that gymnosperms have?
they are shallow, preventing the plants from growing too tall above ground.
they are shallow, allowing the plants to easily gather water from earths surface.
they grow deep, preventing the plants from growing too tall above the ground.
they grow deep, allowing the plants to gather water from far below earths surface.

Explanation:

Gymnosperms often have deep - rooted systems. Shallow roots would not be advantageous for gathering water from far below. Deep roots allow plants to access water sources that are not easily depleted, like groundwater. Also, deep roots do not prevent the plant from growing tall (many tall gymnosperms like conifers have deep roots).

Answer:

They grow deep, allowing the plants to gather water from far below Earth’s surface.