Question

each diagram shows a cell with a semipermeable membrane submerged in a solution. solutions contain different amounts of solutes (glucose, sodium). the membrane is not permeable to glucose or sodium. the graphic (gif) shows water molecules (small and blue) with larger green glucose molecules. 1. which side is hypertonic? (a or b) 2. which side will gain water? 3. what is \c\?

Explanation:

1. Which side is hypertonic? (A or B)

Hypertonic solution has higher solute concentration. Green dots (glucose) are solutes. Counting green dots: A has fewer, B has more. So B has higher solute concentration, making it hypertonic.

Water moves from hypotonic (lower solute) to hypertonic (higher solute) via osmosis. A is hypotonic (fewer solutes), B is hypertonic. So water moves to B, so B gains water.

The diagram shows a semipermeable membrane (cell membrane-like structure) between A and B. "C" is this semipermeable membrane (like a cell membrane or a selectively permeable barrier allowing water but not glucose/sodium through).

Answer:

B

2. Which side will gain water?