Question

The large box represents a cell with a semi-permeable membrane. The small dark dots represent molecules of water, and the large circles represent a solute such as sugar or salt. The membrane is thin enough for water to pass through, but it is not thin enough for the solute to pass.

What will happen to the substances in this diagram to bring the concentration closer to equilibrium?

Answer 1

In the scenario described, water molecules will move through the semi-permeable membrane from the hypotonic solution to the hypertonic solution due to osmosis. This movement will continue until equilibrium is reached, resulting in equal water and solute concentrations on both sides of the membrane.

Step-by-step explanation:

The system described in the question showcases the process of osmosis, wherein water molecules move across a semi-permeable membrane from an area of higher water concentration to an area of lower water concentration. This movement will continue until an equilibrium is reached, resulting in isotonic solutions, where the concentration of solutes is equal on both sides of the membrane. A hypertonic solution, which has a higher concentration of solute (and thus a lower concentration of water), will receive water from the hypotonic solution, where the water concentration is higher. This biological principle helps to maintain osmotic balance and is essential for cell function and homeostasis.

Focusing on the beaker example with sugar as the solute, the side of the membrane with less sugar (the hypotonic solution) contains more water. Consequently, water molecules will naturally move to the side with more sugar (the hypertonic solution) because it has a lower water concentration. This net flow will continue until the water concentration is equal on both sides, or until outside factors alter the conditions, such as increased hydrostatic pressure counterbalancing the osmotic movement.