A cell is placed in a hypotonic solution. The cell will
A) lose water by diffusion
B) gain water by osmosis
C) lose water by exocytosis
D) gain water by pinocytosis
E) remain unchanged

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a hypotonic solution, the solute concentration outside the cell is lower than that inside the cell. As a result, water will move from an area of higher concentration (outside the cell) to an area of lower concentration (inside the cell) by osmosis. This will cause the cell to gain water and swell.

A Cell Is Placed in a Hypotonic Solution