High concentrations of salt and sugar in foods
A)are useful in preserving the food.
B)tend to draw water out of a cell.
C)tend to force water into a cell,causing plasmolysis.
D)have no effect on water availability.
E)are useful in preserving the food AND tend to draw water out of a cell.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

High concentrations of salt and sugar in foods are useful in preserving the food by creating a hypertonic environment that draws water out of cells via osmosis. This results in a process called plasmolysis, where the cell membrane pulls away from the cell wall. As a result, the food becomes dehydrated, preventing the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can spoil it. Therefore, choice E is the best answer.

High Concentrations of Salt and Sugar in Foods