Question

q9. a simcell has a special membrane that is permeable to alcohol but not to water. this simcell contains 20% alcohol and 80% water and is placed in a solution containing 40% alcohol and 60% water. what will happen to the cell? it will expand due to net movement of water into the cell. it will expand due to net movement of alcohol into the cell. it will contract due to net movement of water out of the cell. it will contract due to net movement of alcohol out of the cell.

Explanation:

Step1: Identify the concentration gradient of alcohol

The cell has 20% alcohol and the surrounding solution has 40% alcohol. There is a higher - concentration of alcohol outside the cell.

Step2: Consider membrane permeability

The membrane is permeable to alcohol but not to water. So, alcohol will move down its concentration gradient.

Step3: Determine the effect on the cell

Alcohol will move from the solution (higher concentration) into the cell (lower concentration). As alcohol enters the cell, the cell will expand.

Answer:

It will expand due to net movement of alcohol into the cell.