If a cell is hypotonic in relation to its environment, will this cell gain or lose water?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the effect of a hypotonic environment on a cell, specifically whether it will gain or lose water. A hypotonic environment means that the concentration of solutes outside the cell is lower than inside the cell, causing water to move into the cell by osmosis.
Answer
The cell will lose water.
If a cell is hypotonic in relation to its environment, it will lose water.
Answer for screen readers
If a cell is hypotonic in relation to its environment, it will lose water.
More Information
When a cell is hypotonic compared to its environment, it has a lower concentration of solutes inside than outside, causing water to move out of the cell to balance the concentration.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing whether the solution or the cell is hypotonic. Remember, water moves from areas of higher water concentration to lower water concentration.
Sources
- Hypotonic Vs Hypertonic Cells : r/biology - Reddit - reddit.com
