Question

How is the potential affected if solutes are added to water?

Answer 1

Water potential:

1. Water potential is the potential energy of the water in a device relative to pure water, as both temperature and pressure are preserved in the same way.
2. It helps in the determination of movement and direction of the water.

Solute potential:

1. The solute potential is also referred to as osmotic potential.
2. Its value is zero in distilled water and negative in plant cells.
3. It is denoted by Ψs.
4. The addition of solute to water, reduces the water potential, thus creating a negative water potential.
5. Adding solutes decreases the free energy of the water by diluting it.