Multiple Choice
Which of the following processes in the water cycle is primarily responsible for the formation of dew on surfaces in the morning?
115
views
34. Vascular Plant Transport
Water Potential
Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the water potential (\( \Psi \)) of a zucchini cube placed in pure water at atmospheric pressure?
A
It is less than zero (\( \Psi < 0 \))
B
It is greater than zero (\( \Psi > 0 \))
C
It is equal to zero (\( \Psi = 0 \))
D
It is always positive regardless of the environment
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of water potential (
): Water potential is a measure of the potential energy of water in a system compared to pure water, under standard conditions. It determines the direction of water movement and is influenced by solute concentration and pressure.
Recall the formula for water potential:
, where
is the pressure potential and
is the solute potential. Pure water has a solute potential (
) of zero.
Consider the zucchini cube: Zucchini cells contain solutes, which lower the solute potential (
) below zero. This means the overall water potential (
) of the zucchini cube will be less than zero.
Analyze the environment: The zucchini cube is placed in pure water, which has a water potential (
) of zero. Water will move from the area of higher water potential (pure water) to the area of lower water potential (zucchini cube).
Conclude the answer: Based on the above reasoning, the water potential (
) of the zucchini cube is less than zero, as it contains solutes that lower its solute potential.
Related Videos
Related Practice
