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Question

What happens to the cell when it is placed in salt solution?


A

Bursts

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B

Shrinks

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C

Swells

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D

No effect

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Solution

The correct option is B

Shrinks


The correct option is B.

Explanation of the correct option :

1. The concentration of saltwater is higher than normal water, and therefore saltwater is an example of a hypertonic solution.

2. When a cell is placed in saltwater, due to its concentration gradient, the water from the cell will go to the saltwater, resulting in the shrinking of the cell.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option A :

When a cell is placed in water, the concentration of solute will be more inside the cell. So the water from outside will move into the cell resulting in the cell swelling and finally bursting. These types of solutions are hypotonic solutions.

Option C :

The cell will swell when it is placed in a hypotonic solution.

Option D :

If a cell is placed in a solution with an equal concentration of solute in both the inside and surrounding medium of the cell, there will be no movement of water occurs. There will be no effect on the cell and surrounding medium. This type of solution is known as an isotonic solution.

Final answer: When the cell when it is placed in salt solution, it will shrinks.


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