Here's how it works in the words you mentioned:
* Inquisitive: This word combines the root "ques" with the prefix "in-" (meaning "into" or "within") and the suffix "-itive" (meaning "tending to"). Therefore, inquisitive means "tending to ask questions" or "eager to learn".
* Inquire: This word combines the root "ques" with the prefix "in-" (meaning "into" or "within") and the suffix "-ire" (meaning "to make"). Therefore, inquire means "to ask a question" or "to seek information".
Essentially, the root "ques" signifies the act of seeking or questioning, which is the core meaning of both inquisitive and inquire.