Question

how does the cell wall protect prokaryotic cells in a hypotonic solution?
\bigcirc because cells shrivel in a hypotonic environment, the bacterial cell wall counteracts the inward osmotic pressure and prevents the cell from being crushed.
\bigcirc because cells swell in a hypotonic environment, the bacterial cell wall counteracts the inward osmotic pressure and prevents the cell from being crushed.
\bigcirc because cells swell in a hypotonic environment, the bacterial cell wall counteracts the outward osmotic pressure and prevents the cell from bursting.
\bigcirc because cells shrivel in a hypotonic environment, the bacterial cell wall counteracts the outward osmotic pressure and prevents the cell from bursting.
\bigcirc because cells are osmotically balanced in a hypotonic environment, the cell wall allows water flow back and forth, continuing to maintain the osmotic balance.

Explanation:

In a hypotonic solution, water moves into prokaryotic cells via osmosis, causing them to swell. The rigid cell wall resists the outward pressure generated by the swollen cell, stopping it from bursting. This matches the correct option's description.

Answer:

Because cells swell in a hypotonic environment, the bacterial cell wall counteracts the outward osmotic pressure and prevents the cell from bursting.