Solute potential of a solution is

Options

A. Always negative
B. Represented by `psi_s`
C. Always positive
D. Both (1) and (2)

Answer

To solve the question regarding the solute potential of a solution, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Concept of Solute Potential
- Solute potential (also known as osmotic potential) is a measure of the tendency of water to move into a solution due to the presence of solutes. It is denoted by the symbol Ψs.

### Step 2: Analyze the Options
- The options given are:
A) always negative
B) represented by psi s
C) always positive
D) both A and B

### Step 3: Evaluate Each Option
- **Option A**: "always negative" - This is true because the presence of solutes in a solution lowers the potential of water, making the solute potential negative.
- **Option B**: "represented by psi s" - This is also true as solute potential is indeed represented by the symbol Ψs.
- **Option C**: "always positive" - This is false because solute potential is negative when solutes are present.
- **Option D**: "both A and B" - Since both A and B are true, this option is also correct.

### Step 4: Conclusion
- The correct answer is **Option D**: both A and B, as solute potential is always negative and is represented by Ψs.