Verification of truth — necessary attribute: A tree always has which of the following?

Introduction / Context:
Verification-of-truth questions ask for an attribute that is always present in the given object or concept, not something that is common, frequent, or typical. For “tree,” we must identify a feature that is structurally essential in all normal cases.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The term “tree” refers to the biological plant form (a woody perennial with a main stem/trunk), not to special cases like artificial trees or purely metaphorical uses.
• We consider necessary botanical structure, not seasonal/contingent features.

Concept / Approach:
Trees are vascular plants with a root system (below ground), a stem/trunk (above ground), and a crown (branches/leaves). Of these, roots are fundamental for anchorage and absorption. Leaves and fruits are common but not universal at all times (e.g., deciduous trees may lack leaves seasonally; many trees do not bear fruit every season).

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
If a tree loses leaves (winter) or is a juvenile with no fruit, it remains a tree; if it has no roots (as a living plant), it cannot function as a tree. Thus roots are the reliable invariant.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Branches: Young or pollarded trees may temporarily lack obvious branching.
• Leaves: Deciduous species shed leaves seasonally.
• Fruits: Not present on all species or at all times.
• None of these: Incorrect because “Roots” is always present.

Common Pitfalls:

• Selecting “leaves” due to everyday observation, forgetting seasonal leaf drop.

Final Answer:

Roots