Multiple choice

Two cells A and B are placed adjacent to each other. Cell A has an osmotic potential (psi) of -16 bars and a pressure potential (p) of 10 bars whereas cell B has an osmotic potential (psi) of -14 bars and a pressure potential (p) of 4 bars. What will be the flow of water in the cells?

  1. From cell B to cell A

  2. From cell A to cell B

  3. No movement will take place.

  4. Movement will take place both ways.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

The flow of water will take from A to B.  Water potential of A = psi + p; = -16 + 10; = -6 bars Water potential of B = -14 + 4; = -10 bars Since osmotic entry always takes place from higher water potential to lower water potential, the direction of flow of water will be from cell A to cell B.

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