Cell Bio - Osmosis Flashcards
Define Osmosis
The movement of water molecules from a higher water concentration to a lower water concentration DOWN the concentration gradient
State the result of plant cells when they are in a solution with a higher water conc. than their contents
They gain water by osmosis and become turgid
State what will happen to plant cells when they are placed in a solution with a lower water conc. than their contents?
They lose water by osmosis and become plasmolysed
Define the term “turgid”
Refers to a swollen and firm state resulting from the plant cell being filled with water.
Define the term “plasmolysed/plasmolysis”
Plant cells lose water through osmosis, causing the cell membrane to shrink away from the cell wall.
Explain why the plant cell does not burst when water enters the cell
Because of rigid cell wall, provides structural support and prevents excessive swelling.
What factor determines the water concentration?
The proportion of water to solute
Define the term
“water concentration”
Proportion of a solution that is water.
