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Multiple Choice
If two solutions have unequal concentrations of solutes, which one will be considered hypertonic?
A
The solution with the lower concentration of solutes
B
Both solutions are hypertonic to each other
C
The solution with the higher concentration of solutes
D
Neither solution can be hypertonic
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of tonicity: Tonicity refers to the relative concentration of solutes in two solutions separated by a semipermeable membrane. It determines the direction of water movement via osmosis.
Define hypertonic: A solution is considered hypertonic if it has a higher concentration of solutes compared to another solution. This causes water to move out of the less concentrated solution into the hypertonic solution.
Compare the solute concentrations: To determine which solution is hypertonic, compare the solute concentrations of the two solutions. The solution with the higher solute concentration is hypertonic relative to the other.
Eliminate incorrect options: The solution with the lower concentration of solutes is hypotonic, not hypertonic. Both solutions cannot be hypertonic to each other simultaneously, and neither solution being hypertonic contradicts the definition of tonicity.
Conclude: The correct answer is that the solution with the higher concentration of solutes is hypertonic relative to the other solution.