Question

Addition of a solute to pure water causes

• A. Negative water potential
• B. More negative water potential
• C. Positive water potential
• D. More positive water potential

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Negative water potential

Water potential of pure water is zero. Addition of any solute will cause a reduction in the relative number of water molecules as compared to pure water. This reduction in number of water molecules is responsible for reduction in water potential. Hence, water potential of any solution will always be negative.