Question

Explain water potential and describe how it affects osmosis. Explain it in two sentences in simple English terms

Answer 1

Water potential is a measure of the potential energy of water in a system, which determines the direction water will move; it depends on solute concentration and pressure. When water moves from an area of higher water potential (less solute) to an area of lower water potential (more solute), osmosis occurs, helping to balance the solute levels.