5 Solved NEET-Level Water Potential Problems

Problem 1: A cell has Ψs = -12 bars and Ψp = +5 bars. Calculate Ψw. If placed in a solution with Ψw = -6 bars, will the cell gain or lose water?

Solution: Step 1: Ψw = Ψs + Ψp = -12 + 5 = -7 bars Step 2: Compare cell Ψw (-7 bars) with solution Ψw (-6 bars) Step 3: Solution Ψw (-6) > Cell Ψw (-7) Step 4: Water moves from higher Ψw (solution, -6) to lower Ψw (cell, -7) Answer: Cell GAINS water from the solution.