Step-by-step explanation:
Water potential is the measure of free energy available in water. When the soil is salty, the water potential in the soil decreases, making it difficult for plants to absorb water and other necessary nutrients. The decrease in water potential reduces the ability of the plant's roots to take up water, resulting in dehydration and eventually death. Furthermore, the accumulation of salts in the soil cause osmotic stress, which can damage the plant's cells and reduce its ability to photosynthesize and grow. Therefore, when grown in salty soil, plants may die due to a decreased water potential and osmotic stress.