Question

multiple choice question
which of the following factors affect the tonicity of a solution surrounding a cell?

the volume of water outside of the cell compared to inside of the cell
the kinetic energy of solutes outside of the cell compared to inside of the cell
the concentration of nonpermeating solutes outside of the cell compared to inside of the cell
the surface area of the semipermeable cell membrane

Explanation:

Tonicity depends on the concentration of non - penetrating (nonpermeating) solutes across a semipermeable membrane (like the cell membrane). The volume of water, kinetic energy of solutes, and surface area of the cell membrane do not directly determine tonicity. The concentration of nonpermeating solutes outside vs. inside the cell drives osmosis and thus affects tonicity.

Answer:

C. The concentration of nonpermeating solutes outside of the cell compared to inside of the cell