Question:

Addition of more solutes in a given solution will:

Updated On: May 2, 2025
  • Raise its water potential
  • Lower its water potential.
  • Make its water potential zero
  • Not affect the water potential at all
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

The concept of water potential is crucial in understanding how water moves through plant tissues. Water potential (\( \Psi \)) is a measure of the potential energy in water, particularly important in osmosis, which determines the direction and rate of water movement.

Water potential is influenced by the presence of solutes and pressure. It is defined mathematically as: 

\( \Psi = \Psi_s + \Psi_p \)

Where:

  • \( \Psi \) = Total water potential
  • \( \Psi_s \) = Solute potential (also known as osmotic potential)
  • \( \Psi_p \) = Pressure potential

Adding more solutes to a solution affects the solute potential (\( \Psi_s \)). Solute potential is always negative because solutes lower the potential of water. The addition of solutes makes the solute potential more negative, thus lowering the overall water potential (\( \Psi \)). This can be expressed as:

\( \Psi_s = - \text{number of solutes added} \)

Therefore, the correct answer is:

  • Lower its water potential.
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Concepts Used:

Plant - Water Relation

Plants require water for their survival and growth. Water is taken up by plant roots from the soil and transported to the leaves through specialized tissues called xylem. In the leaves, water is used in the process of photosynthesis, where it is split into oxygen and hydrogen ions. The oxygen is released into the atmosphere, while the hydrogen ions are used to produce glucose and other organic compounds.

Plants also lose water through a process called transpiration, where water vapor is released from the leaves into the atmosphere. Transpiration is important for the plant's survival because it helps to cool the leaves and prevent them from overheating. However, excessive transpiration can lead to water stress, where the plant does not have enough water to meet its needs.

Plants have evolved a number of adaptations to cope with water stress. Some plants have deep roots that can access water deep in the soil, while others have leaves that are adapted to reduce water loss through transpiration. In addition, many plants can enter a state of dormancy during periods of drought, where they conserve water by reducing their metabolic activity.

Overall, the relationship between plants and water is a complex and dynamic one, and it plays a crucial role in the survival and growth of all plant species.