Question

1. an osmosis investigation was conducted using chicken eggs to represent cells with semipermeable membranes. the mass of each egg was measured to determine how much water diffused into or out of the eggs. the eggs were first soaked in vinegar to dissolve the shell. each egg was then placed in one of three different solutions for 24 hours. the table below shows the results of the investigation. based on this experiment, which of the following should be inferred about cells with semipermeable membranes? osmosis in cells a. substances other than water may also cross the cell membrane. b. substances other than water may block pores in the cell membrane. c. water enters the cell when placed in environments of high water concentration. d. water leaves the cell when placed in environments with a low concentration of solutes.

Explanation:

Step1: Understand osmosis concept

Osmosis is the movement of water across a semi - permeable membrane from an area of high water concentration to an area of low water concentration.

Step2: Analyze each option

• Option a:

The experiment only measures the change in mass due to water movement (as it is an osmosis investigation). There is no data provided about other substances crossing the membrane.

• Option b:

There is no indication or data in the experiment about substances blocking pores. The focus is on water movement.

• Option c:

When eggs are placed in distilled water (100% water, high water concentration outside the egg), the mass of the eggs increases. This increase in mass is because water enters the egg (cell). When eggs are placed in vinegar (95% water, relatively high water concentration compared to corn syrup), the mass also increases.

• Option d:

When placed in an environment with a low concentration of solutes (high water concentration), water should enter the cell, not leave. For example, in distilled water (low solute, high water), mass of eggs increases (water enters).

Answer:

C. Water enters the cell when placed in environments of high water concentration.