Question

what would most likely happen to a unicellular organism if it was exposed to a hypotonic solution for an extended period of time? it would shrivel and shrink. it would swell but never burst. it would swell and then burst. it would not be affected.

Explanation:

In a hypotonic solution, the solute concentration outside the cell is lower than inside. Water moves into the cell by osmosis. For a unicellular organism without a rigid cell - wall (like animal - like protists), water influx will cause the cell to swell. Since there is no mechanism to stop the water entry as the cell has no cell - wall, it will eventually burst.

Answer:

It would swell and then burst.