Which solution would be used to keep a cell in a normal state?

Prepare for the EDAPT Homeostasis and Elimination Test. Use interactive flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations. Boost your understanding and get exam-ready now!

Using an isotonic solution is essential for maintaining a cell in its normal state. An isotonic solution has the same concentration of solutes as the interior of the cell. This equilibrium means there is no net movement of water into or out of the cell, allowing the cell to maintain its shape and function properly.

In an isotonic environment, the osmotic pressure inside and outside the cell is balanced. As a result, the biological processes within the cell can proceed without the disruption caused by swelling or shrinkage, which can occur in hypotonic or hypertonic solutions. This stability is crucial for optimal cellular function, especially for the processes that rely on precise concentrations of ions and molecules.

Other types of solutions can lead to changes in cell volume. A hypotonic solution, for instance, would have a lower solute concentration outside the cell, leading to water entering the cell, potentially causing it to swell and burst. Conversely, a hypertonic solution contains a higher concentration of solutes, which would draw water out of the cell, leading to cell shrinkage. A colloidal solution, while it may have relevance in certain contexts, is not specifically designed to maintain the osmotic balance required for normal cellular function. Therefore, it is the isotonic

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