Question

Match Column-I with Column- \(\|\) and select the correct option from the codes given below. Column-I \(\quad\) Column-II A. Hypotonic (i) No net flow of water B. Hypertonic (ii) Water moves into the cell C. Isotonic (iii) Water moves out of the cell (a) \(A-(i i), B-(i i i), C-(i)\) (b) \(A\)-(iii), B-(ii), C-(i) (c) \(A-(i), B-(i i), C-(i i i)\) (d) \(A-(i i), B-(i), C-(i i i)\)

Short answer

The correct option is (a) A-(ii), B-(iii), C-(i).

Step-by-step solution

Define Tonicity

Understand the terms hypertonic, hypotonic, and isotonic in relation to cell osmolarity. A hypertonic solution has a higher solute concentration compared to the cell's interior, causing water to flow out of the cell. A hypotonic solution has a lower solute concentration than the cell's contents, leading to water entering the cell. An isotonic solution has equal concentrations of solutes inside and outside of the cell, resulting in no net flow of water.

Match Hypotonic

Match term 'Hypotonic' (A) with the correct option. Since hypotonic refers to a situation where water moves into the cell due to a lower solute concentration outside, A matches with (ii).

Match Hypertonic

Match term 'Hypertonic' (B) with the correct option. Hypertonic refers to water moving out of the cell because the outside solution has a higher solute concentration, so B matches with (iii).

Match Isotonic

Match term 'Isotonic' (C) with the correct option. An isotonic solution means the solute concentrations are equal inside and outside of the cell, so there is no net water flow, therefore C matches with (i).

Select the Correct Option

Based on the previous matches, look at the given options and choose the one that matches A with (ii), B with (iii), and C with (i).

Key concepts

Hypotonic Solution

In the intricate dance of molecules, the term 'hypotonic solution' refers to the environment outside a cell having a lower concentration of solutes compared to the cell's inside. Picture sipping on a very diluted saltwater solution - that's akin to a cell bathing in a hypotonic environment. The intriguing consequence is water's natural journey into the cell, propelled by osmosis, seeking to balance this concentration discrepancy.

Cells are akin to tiny balloons filled with a solute-rich liquid, and when they find themselves in a hypotonic solution, they become the coveted destination for surrounding water molecules. This influx can cause cells to swell, and in extreme cases, lead to bursting – a dramatic event termed 'lysis'. Plant cells, with their sturdy cell walls, revel in a hypotonic environment, which promotes turgidity and aids in maintaining their structure. For organisms managing their internal pressure, hypotonic solutions are both a challenge and an opportunity.

Hypertonic Solution

Picture a sponge left in the desert sun – as it dries, it shrivels; this is akin to a cell in a hypertonic solution, which sports a higher solute concentration outside than inside the cell. The osmotic balance is off-kilter, prompting water to bid adieu to the cell's confines and flow outwards.

The exodus of water in a hypertonic solution induces the cell to shrivel, a process known as 'crenation' in red blood cells or 'plasmolysis' in plant cells. Reducing in size, these cells face a harsh environment; if the balance isn't restored, their functions can be compromised, leading to detrimental consequences. This osmotic journey is essential for processes such as preserving food with salt or sugar, using nature's own hypertonic solutions to keep bacteria at bay and prolong shelf life.

Isotonic Solution

The oasis of equilibrium in a desert of extremes is found in an isotonic solution. Here, a cell finds solace as the solute concentrations inside and outside its membrane exist in harmonious balance. Imagine two dancers moving in perfect sync, each step and turn matching with precision; similarly, water molecules meander in and out of the cell with no net movement.

Isotonic solutions are the gold standard in medical treatments, especially when intravenous fluids are involved. They ensure that cells are not stressed by excess water intake or loss. For cells, the isotonic state is a comfortable resting place, conducive to optimal functionality and survival, making it a key player in physiological homeostasis.

Cell Osmolarity

Cell osmolarity is the measure that crowns the ruler of molecule movements; it dictates the total concentration of solute particles per unit of volume in a cell. The osmolarity encompasses all solutes - ions, proteins, and sugars - and carries the weight of determining the tonicity of extracellular surroundings.

When two realms – within a cell and its surrounding solution – showcase differing osmolarities, water, acting as a loyal subject to the osmotic gradient, moves with purpose. High osmolarity outside beckons water out of the cell, while low osmolarity sings a siren's song, luring water inward. Consequently, cell osmolarity sets the stage for the cell's survival and function, deeming it an essential parameter in the theatre of cellular dynamics. In understanding cell osmolarity, we unlock the secrets of cell behavior in varying environmental conditions.