Single Choice

To initiate cell plasmolysis, the salt concentration outside the cell must be

AIsotonic
BHypotonic
CHypertonic
Correct Answer
DNone of the above

Solution

Cells are plasmolysed (plasmolysis has occurred) when the cell contents shrink and come out from the cell wall.
If there is a higher concentration of dissolved salt outside of the cell (a hypertonic environment), then H$$_2$$O will diffuse "out" from the cell and the cell will shrink and cellular metabolism will cease. This phenomenon is called as plasmolysis and it is the reason why foods can be preserved with high concentrations of salt and sugar.


SIMILAR QUESTIONS

Cells - The Unit of Life

Which of the following occupies the space between the cell wall and the shrunken protoplast in a plasmolysed cell?

Cells - The Unit of Life

Many freshwater organisms cannot live for long in seawater because the surrounding water will be ______ to body cells and ______ may occur.

Cells - The Unit of Life

When a plant cell is placed in a hypertonic solution it becomes plasmolysed. What shall be present between cell wall and plasmalemma at this stage?

Cells - The Unit of Life

Water potential of a cell, when it is placed in hypertonic solution

Cells - The Unit of Life

If a cell shrinks when placed in a solution, this solution is

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