Question

If a solution outside the cell is more concentrated so that the cell loses water to its environment and shrinks the external solution is said to be _______ to the cell contents.

• A. hypotonic
• B. isotonic
• C. hypertonic
• D. sugar solution

Answer 1

The correct option is C

hypertonic

The correct option is (C)

Explanation of the correct option:

1. If the cell loses water because of the solution present outside of it then that means the outside solution has a higher concentration of molecules or ions.
2. That also shows the water content is lower in the outside solution.
3. Since water moves from higher concentration to lower concentration, the cell loses water and shrinks.
4. In such a case the outside solution is said to be hypertonic to the cell.

Explanation of the incorrect option:

Option (A):

In case the solution outside the cell membrane has a lower concentration, the water will move into the cell and expand and such a solution is called hypotonic to the cell.

Option (B):

When the solution outside the cell as well as inside the cell has the same amount of concentration, the solution is isotonic to the cell.

Option (D):

A sugar solution is an example of a hypertonic solution where the concentration of sugar is higher in the outside solution so the cell will lose its water and shrink down.

Final answer: If a solution outside the cell is more concentrated so that the cell loses water to its environment and shrinks the external solution is said to be hypertonic to the cell contents.