Question

A solution that has less molecules (like salt) outside the cell is a _____ solution. Cells in this solution will gain or lose water?

1) Hypotonic
2) Hypertonic
3) Isotonic

Answer 1

A solution with less molecules of solute outside the cell is hypotonic, and cells will gain water in such a solution.

Step-by-step explanation:

A solution that has less molecules of a solute, such as salt, outside the cell compared to inside is referred to as a hypotonic solution. In this type of solution, cells will generally gain water. This occurs because water follows its concentration gradient and moves from an area where it is more concentrated (outside the cell in this case) to where it is less concentrated (inside the cell). Consequently, cells placed in a hypotonic solution will swell and can potentially burst if too much water enters.