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If an animal cell shrinks, it was probably placed in a _____.

hypotonic solution
hypertonic solution
isotonic solution

2 Answers

4 votes
I would say B. Hypertonic solution because it causes the water to leave the cell by the osmosis.
User James Santiago
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Answer: The correct answer for the blank is- hypertonic solution.

A hypertonic solution is the one that contains higher solute concentration as compared to solvent. When a cell is placed in hypertonic solution, it will loose water through osmosis ( as water always moves from an area of low solute concentration to an area where solute concentration is comparatively higher).

Thus, animal cell will shrink ( due to loss of water) when placed in a hypertonic solution.

User Aviko
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