Question

a solution surrounding a cell is hypertonic if ______.
○ it contains more nonpenetrating solute particles than the interior of the cell
○ it contains fewer nonpenetrating solute particles than the interior of the cell
○ it contains the same amount of nonpenetrating solute particles as the interior of the cell

Explanation:

To determine the correct option, we recall the definition of a hypertonic solution. A hypertonic solution relative to a cell has a higher concentration of nonpenetrating solute particles than the cell's interior. This causes water to move out of the cell via osmosis.

• The first option states it has more nonpenetrating solute particles than the cell's interior, which matches the definition of hypertonic.
• The second option describes a hypotonic solution (lower solute concentration outside, water moves into the cell).
• The third option describes an isotonic solution (equal solute concentration, no net water movement).

Answer:

A. it contains more nonpenetrating solute particles than the interior of the cell