Question

Why is solute potential always negative?

Answer 1

The solute potential of pure water is zero since there is no solute molecule. The more the amount of solute, the more negative is the value solute potential. So the solute potential of a solution is always negative due to the increase in the solute concentration in a solution.

Answer 2

The decrease in the amount of free energy of water molecules due to the addition of the solute in water is known as the solute potential. The solute potential of pure water is zero since it does not contain any amount of solute in the water. The more the amount of solute the lower is the water potential and the solute potential is negative. i.e. the solute potential of a solution is always negative.