Multiple Choice
In a hypotonic solution, what happens to animal cells due to osmosis?
26
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
If a hypotonic solution surrounds a cell, water will ___.
A
move out of the cell
B
not move at all
C
move into the cell
D
move equally in and out of the cell
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of tonicity: Tonicity refers to the relative concentration of solutes in two solutions separated by a semipermeable membrane. A hypotonic solution has a lower concentration of solutes compared to the solution inside the cell.
Recall the principle 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 to balance solute concentrations.
Analyze the situation: In a hypotonic solution, the solute concentration outside the cell is lower than inside the cell. This creates a concentration gradient where water will move toward the higher solute concentration inside the cell.
Predict the movement of water: Water will move into the cell to equalize the solute concentrations on both sides of the membrane. This can cause the cell to swell and potentially burst if too much water enters.
Summarize the outcome: In a hypotonic solution, water moves into the cell due to osmosis, driven by the concentration gradient of solutes.
Related Videos
Related Practice
