we are told not to water our plants too oftenly as it may cause the roots to rot, or be deprived of oxygen, but how is it that hydroponics works? would the roots not rot by being submerged in water all day?

no, they would not, actually. They're grown in a substrate, usually a vermiculite like stuff called "rock wool" which is volcanic rock which is melted and then spun like sugar to make a kind of fiberglass like substance that compacts a LOT.

Instead of soil being used as a substrate for the plant roots to grow through, this substance is used and only nutrient rich chemicals are allowed to drip intermittently through the root-ball.

Hydroponics is totally different from potted plants. In hydroponics, you use pure and clean flowing water plus the mineral feeds necessary for your plants to growth. While potted plants grow on soil which contains microorganisms that will cause the roots to rot when over watered.

both good answers but dont forget u can still get root rot in hydro grows. water ph levels are prbly most important in a hydro grow.

Hydroponics is totally different from potted plants. In hydroponics, you use pure and clean flowing water plus the mineral feeds necessary for your plants to growth. While potted plants grow on soil which contains microorganisms that will cause the roots to rot when over watered.