Question

what does it mean when a cell is in a hypertonic solution? the cell has fewer solutes than the solution and shrivels up. the cell has more solutes than the solution and swells up.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we recall the definition of a hypertonic solution. A hypertonic solution has a higher concentration of solutes (and thus a lower concentration of water) compared to the cell's interior. By the principle of osmosis, water moves from an area of lower solute concentration (higher water concentration) to an area of higher solute concentration (lower water concentration). So, if the solution is hypertonic relative to the cell, the cell has fewer solutes (more water) than the solution. Water will then move out of the cell into the solution, causing the cell to lose water and shrivel up. The second option describes a hypotonic solution scenario (where the cell has more solutes than the solution, so water moves into the cell and it swells).

Answer:

The cell has FEWER solutes than the solution and shrivels up.