Let's suppose the solute concentration inside the cells of a plant is 0.3 M and the concentration outside is 0.2 M. If we assume that the solute does not readily cross the membrane, which of the following statements best describes what will happen?
a) The plant cells will lose water, and the plasma membrane will push against the cell wall.
b) The plant cells will lose water, and the plasma membrane will pull away from the cell wall (plasmolysis).
c) The plant cells will take up a lot of water and undergo osmotic lysis.
d) The plant cells will take up a little water, and the plasma membrane will push against the cell wall.
e) both a and b.
Answer: D