Question
If a cell is dropped into a solution and the cell shrinks, the solution is \[ \text { isotonic } \] equaltonic hypotonic hypertonic
Ask by Mills Fuentes. in the United States
Jan 23,2025
Real Tutor Solution
Tutor-Verified Answer
Answer
The solution is hypertonic.
Solution
If a cell shrinks after being placed in a solution, it means that water has moved out of the cell. This movement occurs because the surrounding solution has a higher concentration of solutes compared to the inside of the cell.
Here's a breakdown of the terms:
- **Isotonic**: The solute concentration outside the cell is equal to that inside the cell. There is no net movement of water, so the cell remains the same size.
- **Hypotonic**: The solute concentration outside the cell is lower than inside. Water moves into the cell, causing it to swell.
- **Hypertonic**: The solute concentration outside the cell is higher than inside. Water moves out of the cell, causing it to shrink.
Since the cell is shrinking, the solution must be **hypertonic**.
**Answer:** hypertonic
Reviewed and approved by the UpStudy tutoring team
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Simplify this solution The Deep Dive
When a cell is dropped into a hypertonic solution, water moves out of the cell and into the surrounding solution, causing the cell to shrink. This happens because the concentration of solutes outside the cell is higher than that inside, creating a gradient that leads to water leaving the cell to balance the solute concentrations. In real-world scenarios, this concept is crucial, especially in medical fields. For instance, when administering saline solutions, healthcare professionals must ensure the correct tonicity to avoid causing cells to shrink or burst, which could have serious implications for patient health. Keeping cells healthy and happy is key!
