A solution of water and a nonvolatile,nonionizing compound is placed in a tube with a semipermeable membrane on one side.The tube is placed in a beaker of pure water.What initial net effect will occur?
A)Nothing will move through the membrane either way.
B)Water will flow from the beaker to the tube.
C)Water will flow from the tube to the beaker.
D)Equilibrium will be immediately established.
E)The compound will pass through the membrane into the solution.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since the solution in the tube has a solute, it has a lower water potential than that of the pure water in the beaker. Therefore, water will move from the beaker into the tube through the semipermeable membrane, in an attempt to equalize the concentration of solute. This will continue until the water potential on both sides of the membrane is the same, which will result in partial equilibrium.

A Solution of Water and a Nonvolatile,nonionizing Compound Is Placed