Question

What would happen when eukaryotic cells are placed in hypotonic, hypertonic and isotonic solutions ?

Answer 1

Part (i): Hypertonic solution:

1. If the eukaryotic cells are present in a hypertonic solution, it means that the concentration inside the cell is lower than the outside.
   
2. Since the solute concentration is low inside the cell, the water will move out of the cell towards the surroundings, making the cell shrink.
   

Part (ii): Hypotonic solution:

1. ​Hypotonic solution present around the eukaryotic cells mean the solution outside has a lower concentration as compared to inside the cell.
   
2. This is why the water is move inside the cell as it has a higher solute concentration.
   

Part (iii): Isotonic solution:

1. If the solution is isotonic to the eukaryotic cell, it means the concentration inside the cell is same as the solution present outside.
   
2. There will not be any movement of water between the cell and the surrounding as the cell will remain in a state of equilibrium.