Suppose that a cell has a membrane that is permeable to water but NOT to Na⁺ or Cl- or any other solute. More NaCl exists outside the cell than inside the cell, and the osmolarity of the cell is higher than that of the solution surrounding the cell. Which of the following should occur?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since the membrane is permeable to water but not to Na+ and Cl-, water molecules will move across the membrane from an area of higher concentration (outside the cell) to an area of lower concentration (inside the cell), in a process called osmosis. As water moves into the cell, the cell will swell and the concentration of Na+ and Cl- inside the cell will decrease. Therefore, overall, the cell will take up water. The movement of Na+ and Cl- is not possible through the membrane, so they will not be able to enter the cell.

Suppose That a Cell Has a Membrane That Is Permeable