A cell is isotonic to the surrounding 4% dextrose solution. If the cell is moved to a 6% dextrose solution, then predict what will happen to the cell.
A) The cell will shrink.
B) The cell will not change in size or shape.
C) The cell will bloat.
D) The cell will rupture.
E) The cell will lyse.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The cell is isotonic to a 4% dextrose solution, meaning that the concentration of solutes inside the cell is the same as the concentration outside the cell. If the cell is then placed in a 6% dextrose solution, the concentration of solutes outside the cell is now higher than inside the cell, leading to water leaving the cell by osmosis. This causes the cell to shrink.

A Cell Is Isotonic to the Surrounding 4% Dextrose Solution