What happens when a pressure greater than the atmospheric pressure is applied to pure water or a solution?

When a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure is applied to pure water or a solution, it increases the water potential of the system. This phenomenon occurs because pressure can contribute to the overall water potential according to the equation: Ψ = Ψp + Ψs + Ψm Where: Ψ is the water potential. Ψp is the pressure potential. Ψs is the solute potential. Ψm is the matric potential. When an external pressure greater than atmospheric pressure is applied, it increases the pressure potential (Ψp) component of the water potential equation. As a result, the overall water potential of the system becomes more positive. In the context of pure water, applying pressure greater than atmospheric pressure can lead to changes in the physical properties of water. For example, under increased pressure, the boiling point of water increases, and the freezing point decreases compared to standard atmospheric pressure conditions. In the context of solutions, applying pressure can affect osmotic processes. For example, in osmosis, applying pressure to the side with higher solute concentration (hypertonic solution) can counteract the osmotic movement of water molecules into the solution. This process is utilized in reverse osmosis systems, where pressure greater than the osmotic pressure is applied to force water molecules through a semipermeable membrane, separating them from solutes and contaminants. Overall, applying pressure greater than atmospheric pressure to pure water or a solution can alter the water potential and affect various physical and biochemical processes involving water. read less