If a normal cell is placed into an unknown solution and it shrinks, what can be concluded about the unknown solution?
A) Its nonpenetrating solute concentration is greater than that of a normal cell.
B) Its nonpenetrating solute concentration is less than that of a normal cell.
C) Its nonpenetrating solute concentration is equal to that of a normal cell.
D) Its penetrating solute concentration is less than that of a normal cell.
E) Its penetrating solute concentration is greater than that of a normal cell.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If a normal cell shrinks, it means that water has moved out of the cell due to a higher concentration gradient of nonpenetrating solutes outside the cell. Therefore, the concentration of nonpenetrating solutes is higher outside the cell than inside.

If a Normal Cell Is Placed into an Unknown Solution