The water potential of pure water is

Options

A. zero
B. less than zero
C. more than zero but less than one
D. more than one

Answer

To answer the question, "The water potential of pure water is," we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Water Potential**: Water potential (Ψ) is a measure of the potential energy of water in a system and is influenced by solute concentration and pressure. It is expressed as:
\[ Ψ = Ψ_s + Ψ_p \]
where Ψ_s is the solute potential and Ψ_p is the pressure potential.

2. **Analyzing Pure Water**: In the case of pure water, there are no solute molecules present. Therefore, the solute potential (Ψ_s) is equal to 0 because solute potential is a measure of the effect of solute concentration on water potential.

3. **Considering Pressure Potential**: The pressure potential (Ψ_p) can also be considered. In an open system (like pure water in a container), the pressure potential is typically 0 as there is no additional pressure applied.

4. **Calculating Water Potential**: Since both the solute potential and pressure potential are 0 for pure water, we can conclude:
\[ Ψ = Ψ_s + Ψ_p = 0 + 0 = 0 \]

5. **Final Answer**: Therefore, the water potential of pure water is 0.

### Conclusion:
The correct answer to the question is **0**.

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