Question

in a hypertonic solution, which means above strength, which of the following will happen? the cells gain water and the cell swells. the cell is unaffected by the water. the cells lose water and the cell shrivels.

Explanation:

In a hypertonic solution, the concentration of solutes outside the cell is higher than inside. Osmosis causes water to move out of the cell (from an area of lower solute concentration - inside the cell - to an area of higher solute concentration - outside the cell). When water leaves the cell, the cell loses volume and shrivels.

• The first option (cells gain water and swell) occurs in a hypotonic solution (where solute concentration outside is lower, so water moves into the cell).
• The second option (cell is unaffected) would be the case in an isotonic solution (equal solute concentrations inside and outside, so no net water movement).

Answer:

The cells lose water and the cell shrivels.