Final answer:
The cell in sugar solution B is in a hypertonic solution causing it to shrink, while the cell in sugar solution A is in a hypotonic solution causing it to swell. This is due to the different concentrations of solutes in the two solutions, affecting the direction of water movement through osmosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference in cell behavior when placed in sugar solutions A and B stems from the osmotic pressure caused by different concentrations of solutes in the solutions. Solution B likely has a higher solute concentration, making it hypertonic, which means water will flow out of the cell, causing it to shrink or crenate. In contrast, Solution A, being hypotonic, has a lower solute concentration, resulting in water entering the cell, potentially making it swell or even burst (lysis).
When a cell is placed in a hypertonic solution like Solution B, the water concentration inside the cell is higher than outside. This concentration gradient causes water to move out of the cell through osmosis to reach equilibrium. Conversely, when in a hypotonic solution like Solution A, there is a net movement of water into the cell, as the surrounding solution has a lower concentration of solutes compared to the cell's interior. This process continues until the solute concentrations are equal on both sides of the cell membrane, resulting in the solutions being isotonic.