A scientist places four identical cells into four different liquids, each with different concentrations of magnesium.

Cell

Description of Liquid

W

Slightly more magnesium than the cell

X

The least amount of magnesium

Y

Slightly less magnesium than the cell

Z

The most amount of magnesium

Which cells will likely grow larger over time?

cells W and Z
cell W only
cell Y only
cells X and Y

1 answer

To determine which cells will likely grow larger over time, we need to consider the concentration of magnesium in each liquid relative to the concentration inside the cells.

  1. Cell W is in a liquid with slightly more magnesium than the cell itself. This could lead to a situation of equilibrium or some uptake of magnesium, positively affecting growth.

  2. Cell X is in the liquid with the least amount of magnesium. This is likely to lead to a negative impact on growth, as the low concentration may not support the cell’s needs.

  3. Cell Y is in a liquid with slightly less magnesium than the cell. This could potentially lead to a loss of magnesium from the cell, which is not conducive to growth.

  4. Cell Z is in the liquid with the most amount of magnesium. High external magnesium concentration can promote osmotic balance and is likely to support cell growth.

Based on this analysis, cells W and Z are likely to grow larger over time due to the favorable conditions for them (W with slightly more magnesium and Z with the most magnesium).

So, the answer is cells W and Z.