Question

Epsom salts are solutes that do not pass through cell membranes. If one soaks in a hypertonic solation of Epsom salts, which of the following will occur?
a. water will enter the body by osmosis
b. the water will leave the body by osmosis
c. Epsom salts will enter the body by diffusion
d. Epsom salts will leave the body by diffusion

Answer 1

Answer:

B

Explanation:

The net movements of water from the region of higher water potential  to the region of low water potential through  a selectively permeable membrane is osmosis. It is a form of diffusion which involves the transport of water molecules.

In this present scenario  water molecules  pass through the selectively permeable membrane from higher water potential in the body, to lower water potential but high solute potential (Epsom salts). The later is called an hypertonic solution,this is because it has higher solute potential ,thus higher salt concentration than the surrounding medium,therefore water pass by osmosis into the Epsom salts.

If one is placed in this solution,the cells shrink as they lose water to the more concentrated Epsom.(hypertonic solution)

However, the body homeostatic mechanism through the kidney  ensure re-absorption of fluid back to the body from the DCT  and CT, via  anti diuretic hormone to preserve the cell and the person.