A researcher is studying a newly discovered toxin. The effect of this toxin is to block the action of the sodium-potassium pump. What prediction can be made about the effect of this toxin on cell volume?
A) The cell volume will increase as water flows into the cell by osmosis.
B) The cell volume will decrease as no potassium will be pumped into the cell.
C) The cell volume will decrease as no sodium is pumped out of the cell.
D) The cell volume will remain the same since the transport of water is not directly affected by this toxin.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Blocking the sodium-potassium pump disrupts the balance of sodium and potassium ions across the cell membrane, leading to an accumulation of sodium inside the cell. This causes water to flow into the cell by osmosis, increasing cell volume.

A Researcher Is Studying a Newly Discovered Toxin