Question

In this diagram, when the TP of the cell B increases to 18. What would be the changes with regard to water movement?

• A. Cells A, C, D and E absorb water from B
• B. Water diffuses into B from other cells
• C. B actively absorb water from neighbour cell
• D. No movement of water will occur

Answer 1

The correct option is A Cells A, C, D and E absorb water from B

The tendency of water to move was used to be measured in terms of diffusion pressure (DP). It was believed that the pure solvent had the maximum diffusion pressure. Addition of solutes resulted in a decrease in the diffusion pressure. This deficit was termed diffusion pressure deficit (DPD). Water moves from low DPD to high DPD.

DPD = OP – TP
Cell A DPD = 6
Cell B DPD = 2
Cell C DPD = 6
Cell D DPD = 6
Cell E DPD = 6

Cell B has lowest DPD. So cells A, C, D and E absorb water from B.