Bacterial cells are often found in very hypotonic environments. Which of the following characteristics keeps them from taking in too much water from their environment?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of a cell wall helps to prevent bacterial cells from taking in too much water by allowing for a buildup of turgor pressure. Turgor pressure results from the pressure of the cell contents against the cell wall. As water enters the cell, the turgor pressure increases, which eventually creates an equilibrium at which water no longer enters the cell because the pressure inside the cell is equal to the pressure outside the cell. Therefore, option A is correct. Option B is incorrect because tonic pressure doesn't exist. Option C is incorrect because bacterial cells don't have the capacity to expel water quickly. Option D is incorrect because bacteria don't have active water pumps.

Bacterial Cells Are Often Found in Very Hypotonic Environments