The cell wall will help prevent the cell from bursting in ______ conditions.

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In hypotonic conditions, there is a higher concentration of water outside the cell than inside it, causing water to enter the cell. If the cell lacks a cell wall, the influx of water can cause the cell to burst, a process called lysis. However, a cell wall can help maintain the shape of the cell and prevent it from bursting in hypotonic conditions. In isotonic conditions, the concentration of water inside and outside the cell is equal, so the cell is already in a balanced state and doesn't need a cell wall to prevent bursting. In hypertonic conditions, the concentration of water outside the cell is higher than inside it, causing water to leave the cell. While a cell wall can help prevent the cell from shrinking in hypertonic conditions, it doesn't help prevent bursting. Mesotonic conditions refer to a medium salt concentration that is usually physiologically irrelevant in terms of cell bursting.

The Cell Wall Will Help Prevent the Cell from Bursting