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Multiple Choice
What is most likely to happen if a saltwater fish is placed in freshwater?
A
Its cells will shrink as water leaves by osmosis.
B
There will be no significant change in its cells.
C
Its cells will swell and possibly burst due to water entering by osmosis.
D
The fish will immediately adapt by producing more salt in its cells.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of osmosis: Osmosis is the movement of water across a semipermeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.
Recognize the difference between saltwater and freshwater environments: Saltwater has a higher solute concentration compared to freshwater, meaning the fish's cells are adapted to a high-salt environment.
Analyze the scenario: When a saltwater fish is placed in freshwater, the surrounding environment has a lower solute concentration compared to the fish's cells, creating a hypotonic environment.
Predict the movement of water: Water will move into the fish's cells by osmosis because the solute concentration inside the cells is higher than in the surrounding freshwater.
Explain the likely outcome: As water enters the cells, they will swell due to the influx of water. If the influx is excessive, the cells may burst, leading to damage or death of the fish.