The image represents a human cell in an isotonic solution. Some common cellular molecules that can freely move across the plasma membrane are shown5

What do you think will happen if no energy is used?

a
Some O2 will enter the cell.
b
Some CO2 will leave the cell.
c
Some H2O will leave the cell.
d
Some H2O will enter the cell.

1 answer

If no energy is used, molecules will continue to move across the plasma membrane based on passive transport mechanisms such as diffusion. Therefore, options a, b, and c are likely to occur. O2 will enter the cell, CO2 will leave the cell, and H2O may leave or enter the cell depending on the concentration gradient.