Final answer:
Dehydration reduces ion movement in and between cells and impairs chemical reactions by increasing the cytoplasm's density and compromising diffusion. This can lead to severe consequences for neurons and general cellular metabolism, making the correct answer option 'b) Decreases ion movement, impairs chemical reactions.'
Step-by-step explanation:
Dehydration affects the movement of ions in and between cells by decreasing ion movement and impairing chemical reactions. This occurs because dehydration increases the density of the cytoplasm, which in turn makes it more challenging for molecules to diffuse. When it comes to a cell's ability to carry out chemical reactions, dehydration can hinder these processes by reducing the availability of water, which is a vital solvent in many biochemical reactions.
Neurons are particularly sensitive to dehydration, and the resultant slowing of diffusion can lead to serious consequences such as unconsciousness or even coma. Additionally, dehydration can cause intracellular edema, slowing circulation and impairing renal function, ultimately weakening the individual.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question 'How does dehydration affect the movement of ions in and between cells?' and 'How does dehydration affect a cell's ability to carry out chemical reactions that make up the cell's metabolism?' would be:
b) Decreases ion movement, impairs chemical reactions.