Water potential in plants
Water potential (Ψ) describes the tendency of water to move from one area to another. It determines the direction of water flow in plants and soil. Water always moves from high to low water potential.
Ψ = Ψs + Ψp
- Ψs (solute potential): Always negative or zero. More solutes = more negative.
- Ψp (pressure potential): Can be positive (turgor pressure in cells) or zero (open container).