Osmosis

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the movement of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane from an area of high concentration of free water to an area of low concentration of free water.

Front

What is a hypotonic solution?

Back

A hypotonic solution is one where the solute concentration is lower outside the cell than inside, causing water to enter the cell.

Front

What is a hypertonic solution?

Back

A hypertonic solution is one where the solute concentration is higher outside the cell than inside, causing water to leave the cell.

Front

What is an isotonic solution?

Back

An isotonic solution is one where the solute concentration is equal on both sides of the membrane, resulting in no net movement of water.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypotonic solution?

Back

In a hypotonic solution, water enters the cell, which may cause the cell to swell and potentially burst.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypertonic solution?

Back

In a hypertonic solution, water leaves the cell, which may cause the cell to shrink and become dehydrated.

Front

What is tonicity?

Back

Tonicity refers to the ability of a surrounding solution to cause a cell to gain or lose water.

Front

What is equilibrium in terms of osmosis?

Back

Equilibrium occurs when the concentration of solutes is equal on both sides of a membrane, resulting in no net movement of water.

Front

Why is drinking salt water dangerous?

Back

Drinking salt water is dangerous because it creates a hypertonic environment, causing water to leave your cells and leading to dehydration.

Front

What role do cell membranes play in osmosis?

Back

Cell membranes are selectively permeable, allowing water to pass through while restricting the movement of solutes.