Figure 5.2
The solutions in the two arms of this U-tube are separated by a membrane that is permeable to water and glucose but not to sucrose. Side A is half-filled with a solution of 2 M sucrose and 1 M glucose. Side B is half-filled with 1 M sucrose and 2 M glucose. Initially, the liquid levels on both sides are equal.
-After the system reaches equilibrium, what changes are observed?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In order to reach equilibrium, water will move from the side with higher water potential (lower solute concentration) to the side with lower water potential (higher solute concentration). In this U-tube, water will move from side B to side A in order to equalize the solute concentrations. As a result, the water level on side A will increase, and the water level on side B will decrease. Since water is the only substance that can pass through the membrane, the molarities of sucrose and glucose on both sides will remain unchanged. Therefore, choices A and B are incorrect. The correct answer is C.

Figure 5.2 The Solutions in the Two Arms of This U-Tube Are