Question 28

The concentration of solutes in a hypertonic solution is higher than that of the cell.

In a hypertonic solution, the concentration of solutes is greater compared to the concentration of solutes within the cell. This difference in concentration causes water to move out of the cell, leading to cell shrinkage.

A) Same as

This option is incorrect because a hypertonic solution, by definition, has a higher concentration of solutes compared to the intracellular environment. If the concentrations were the same, the solution would be isotonic, not hypertonic.

B) Lower than

This option is also incorrect, as it contradicts the fundamental definition of a hypertonic solution. A hypertonic solution has a higher concentration of solutes than the cell's interior, making this statement false.

C) Higher than

This option is correct because a hypertonic solution contains a greater concentration of solutes than the concentration found inside the cell. This osmotic disparity results in water moving out of the cell to balance the solute concentrations, which is the defining characteristic of hypertonic solutions.

D) Negative

This option is incorrect as it does not relate to the comparison of solute concentrations. Solute concentration cannot be described as negative in this context, as it refers to the quantitative measure of solutes present in a solution.

Conclusion

The correct answer is C, as it accurately describes the nature of hypertonic solutions in relation to cellular solute concentrations. Options A and B fail because they misrepresent the solute concentration relationship, while Option D is irrelevant. Understanding the implications of a hypertonic environment is crucial for comprehending osmotic pressure and cellular behavior.