Solute Potential of a solution is always

Options

A. 0
B. `gt0`
C. `lt0`
D. Between 0.1-1.0

Answer

To determine the solute potential of a solution, we need to understand the concept of osmotic potential and how it relates to water potential.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding 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 solute. It is represented by the symbol Ψs.

2. **Relation to Water Potential**: Solute potential is calculated in relation to water potential. Water potential (Ψ) is the potential energy of water in a system compared to pure water, and it is influenced by solute concentration.

3. **Effect of Adding Solute**: When solute is added to a solution, it causes a decrease in the water potential of that solution. This is because the presence of solute reduces the availability of water molecules to do work.

4. **Nature of Solute Potential**: Since the addition of solute decreases water potential, the solute potential (Ψs) becomes negative. This is because the more solute that is present, the lower the potential for water to move into the solution.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the solute potential of a solution is always less than 0 (negative). This means that the correct answer to the question is that solute potential is always less than 0.

### Final Answer:
The solute potential of a solution is always **less than 0**.

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