In a hypertonic solution, what happens to a cell?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $25.99Unlock all

Study for the Galen Anatomy and Physiology (AandP) 1 Theory Exam 2. Gain confidence with flashcards, pinpoint areas needing focus, and strengthen understanding through detailed explanations. Excel in your exam with comprehensive preparation!

Multiple Choice

In a hypertonic solution, what happens to a cell?

Explanation:
In a hypertonic solution, the outside has more solutes than the inside, so water moves out of the cell by osmosis to balance concentrations. As water leaves, the cell loses volume and shrinks (crenation in animal cells). If water moved into the cell, that would happen in a hypotonic solution, not hypertonic. If the cell ruptured, that would require excessive swelling from water influx, which isn’t driven by a hypertonic environment. If the cell stayed the same, the external solution would be isotonic. So, the water exits and the cell shrinks.

In a hypertonic solution, the outside has more solutes than the inside, so water moves out of the cell by osmosis to balance concentrations. As water leaves, the cell loses volume and shrinks (crenation in animal cells). If water moved into the cell, that would happen in a hypotonic solution, not hypertonic. If the cell ruptured, that would require excessive swelling from water influx, which isn’t driven by a hypertonic environment. If the cell stayed the same, the external solution would be isotonic. So, the water exits and the cell shrinks.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy