Osmosis/Diffusion Question

by **Diana Timpano** » Thu Mar 24, 2005 6:39 pm

What would happen to your cells if you were to drink Pacific Ocean water (salt)?

by **biostudent84** » Thu Mar 24, 2005 8:51 pm

They would shrink is the simplest answer.

When you place cells in a hypertonic solution, the water outside the cells rushes outside to balance the two concentrations. The same thing happens with hypotonic solution, only the water rushes inside and makes cells swell.

This process makes the concentration of salt equal on both sides of the membrane. Your body has an average of 360 miliosmoules. Seawater has an average of 1000. That's why when you're stuck at sea, you are advised to drink water that is a ratio of 2:1 fresh to saltwater concentration. It will keep you hydrated longest.

by **Diana Timpano** » Thu Mar 24, 2005 9:02 pm

Thank you for helping me out with this one....