Based on the internal and external solute concentrations, do you think the paramecium will swell up or shrink in this solution? Explain your reasoning.

Depending on the external and internal solute concentrations, the paramecium will either, shrink, remain the same size or swell.

If the external solute concentration is less than internal solute concentration, the paramecium will swell.

If the external solute concentration is equal to the internal solute concentration, the paramecium will remain the same in size.

If the external solute concentration is greater than the internal solute concentration, the paramecium will shrink.

Note: The concentrations of the external and internal environments were not given.

Explanation:

When two compartments containing solutions are separated by a semipermeable membrane, by means of osmosis, water can move in or out of a compartment depending on the concentration of solutes in either compartments.

In a cell such as a paramecium, the cell membrane serves as a semipermeable membrane.

If the concentration of solutes in both the internal and external environment are the same, there is no net movement of water molecules, and the solutions are said to be isotonic.

If the concentration of solutes in the external environment is greater than the internal environment, water molecules moves out from the internal to external environment, and the paramecium shrinks in size.

If the concentration of solutes in the external environment is less than the internal environment, water molecules moves from the external into the internal environment, and the paramecium swells up in size.