Multiple Choice
What is most likely to happen to celery stalks that are immersed in fresh water?
24
views
6. The Membrane
Osmosis
Struggling with General Biology?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
In a hypotonic solution, what happens to animal cells due to osmosis?
A
They remain unchanged because water does not move.
B
They shrink as water leaves the cell.
C
They become hypertonic to their environment.
D
They swell and may burst as water enters the cell.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of osmosis: Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.
Define a hypotonic solution: A hypotonic solution has a lower concentration of solutes compared to the inside of the cell, meaning the environment outside the cell has more water relative to the cell's interior.
Analyze the effect of a hypotonic solution on animal cells: Water will move into the cell via osmosis because the concentration of solutes inside the cell is higher than outside, causing the cell to absorb water.
Consider the structure of animal cells: Unlike plant cells, animal cells lack a rigid cell wall to prevent excessive swelling. As water enters, the cell membrane stretches and the cell swells.
Explain the potential outcome: If too much water enters the cell, the pressure may exceed the capacity of the cell membrane, causing the cell to burst (lyse). This is why animal cells are particularly vulnerable in hypotonic solutions.
Related Videos
Related Practice
