Which of the following is an example of a root word in medical terminology?

The correct choice is an example of a root word in medical terminology because “col” serves as a root that refers to the colon, which is a part of the large intestine. In medical terms, root words provide the foundational meaning from which medical terms are built.

Root words are often combined with prefixes or suffixes to form more complex medical terminology. For instance, "colitis" is derived from "col" (colon) plus the suffix "-itis," which indicates inflammation. By understanding the root word, one can decipher that "colitis" refers to inflammation of the colon.

When evaluating the other options, while "card" relates to the heart, "logy" signifies study or science, and "pathy" indicates a disease or disorder, none of those serve as a root word on their own in the same way that "col" specifically represents a part of the body. Understanding these root words is crucial for comprehending and constructing medical terminology effectively.