A Plant Cell Placed in Distilled Water Will...

When a plant cell is placed in distilled water, several things can happen depending on the conditions and properties of the cell and the surrounding water. In this article, we will explore the various outcomes that can result from this scenario and what factors contribute to each possibility. Let's begin.

Swelling and Bursting

One of the most common results of placing a plant cell in distilled water is swelling and bursting. This occurs because the water outside the cell has a lower solute concentration than the cell's cytoplasm, causing water to move into the cell by osmosis. As water enters the cell, it swells and exerts pressure on the cell wall. If the cell wall is strong enough to resist this turgor pressure, the cell will become enlarged but not break. However, if the cell wall is weak or damaged, the cell may burst.

Maintaining Equilibrium

Sometimes, a plant cell placed in distilled water may not swell or burst but instead maintain equilibrium with its environment. This occurs when the concentration of solutes inside and outside the cell is roughly equal, so there is no net movement of water. This state is also known as isotonic. If the cell is in isotonic equilibrium, it will be stable and maintain its shape, size, and function normally.

Plasmolysis

In some cases, placing a plant cell in distilled water may lead to plasmolysis, which is the shrinking of the cell due to water loss. This can happen when the concentration of solutes outside the cell is higher than inside, causing water to move out of the cell. As the water leaves, the cytoplasm contracts and pulls away from the cell wall. This results in a wrinkled appearance and may impair the cell's ability to function normally.

Conclusion

In summary, a plant cell placed in distilled water can experience swelling and bursting, maintain equilibrium, or undergo plasmolysis depending on the solute concentration inside and outside the cell, the strength of the cell wall, and other factors. Understanding these outcomes helps us appreciate the delicate balance of osmosis and the importance of regulating solute concentrations for the health and survival of plant cells.