When two equimolar salt solutions are separated by a selectively permeable membrane, the movement of water molecule across the membrane depends on the water potential of the respective solutions. Water moves from higher water potential to lower water potential.Higher the concentration of ions in a solution; lower is its water potential. In an experiment, two compartments are separated by a specifically designed synthetic membrane that is permeable to water and urea and not to sodium chloride molecules.
Hint: MW of NaCl: 58.4 g/mol MW of Urea: 60 g/mol. In the above condition, which one of the following options best represents the movement of water and its reason?
(a) Water moves into P, because P has higher concentration of non-penetrating solutes.
(b) Water moves into P, because P has higher concentration of penetrating solutes.
(c) Water moves into Q, because Q has higher concentration of non-penetrating solutes.
(d) Water moves into Q, because Q has lower concentration of non-penetrating solutes.
