Question

when comparing the effects of hypotonic and hypertonic solutions on animal cells, which statement is accurate?
both solutions cause the cells to swell.
both solutions cause the cells to shrink.
hypotonic solutions cause cells to swell, while hypertonic solutions cause cells to shrink.
hypotonic solutions cause cells to shrink, while hypertonic solutions cause cells to swell.

Explanation:

In a hypotonic solution, the solute concentration outside the cell is lower than inside, so water moves into the cell causing it to swell. In a hypertonic solution, the solute concentration outside the cell is higher than inside, so water moves out of the cell causing it to shrink.

Answer:

Hypotonic solutions cause cells to swell, while hypertonic solutions cause cells to shrink.