To solve this problem, we need to understand the process and effects of ring girdling on a plant.$\newline \bullet$Ring girdling involves removing a strip of bark from around the entire circumference of a tree or plant stem.$\newline \bullet$The bark contains the phloem, which is responsible for transporting the products of photosynthesis (mainly sugars) from the leaves to other parts of the plant, including the roots.$\newline \bullet$When the phloem is removed, the downward transport of nutrients is interrupted.$\newline \bullet$As a result, the roots are deprived of the necessary nutrients and energy required for their survival.$\newline \bullet$Over time, the roots will die due to the lack of nutrients.$\newline \bullet$Once the roots die, they can no longer support the plant, leading to the eventual death of the shoot.$\newline$Therefore, in a ring girdled plant, the root dies first due to the interruption of nutrient transport.$\newline$This corresponds to Option 2: The root dies first.