Suppose the Plasma Membrane of a Particular Mammalian Cell Is

question 45

Multiple Choice

Suppose the plasma membrane of a particular mammalian cell is much more permeable to water and urea than to any other solute. The water permeability is higher than the urea permeability. The cell is initially in a normal physiological saline solution and then is suddenly moved into a solution consisting of 600 mM urea as the only solute. The cell will:

• A) Swell initially and continue to swell until lysis
• B) Swell initially until it reaches osmotic equilibrium with the medium
• C) Shrink initially and then swell until lysis
• D) Shrink initially and stay shrunken
• E) Swell initially and then shrink back to normal volume

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Definitions:

Bulimic

Pertaining to bulimia nervosa, an eating disorder characterized by episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting or excessive exercise.

Physical and Sexual Abuse

Harmful physical actions and sexual misconduct inflicted upon one individual by another.

Anorexics

Individuals who suffer from anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder characterized by an obsessive fear of gaining weight and severely restricted food intake.

Emotional Support

Assistance provided through empathy, concern, and understanding to help someone cope with stress or difficulties.