Hypothetical plant cells A and B are adjacent to each other. The solute potential ƒS) of cell A is - 0.35 MPa, and its pressure potential ƒP) is +0.15 MPa. The solute potential ƒS) of cell B is - 0.30 MPa, and its pressure potential ƒP) is +0.05 MPa. In which direction will net water movement occur?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Water always moves from an area of high water potential to an area of low water potential. The water potential of a plant cell is influenced by pressure potential and solute potential. Solute potential is always negative, and pressure potential can be positive, negative, or zero. Net movement of water occurs from the region of higher water potential to the region of lower water potential. In this case, the water potential of cell A is lower than that of cell B, so water will move from cell A to cell B.

Hypothetical Plant Cells a and B Are Adjacent to Each