In an investigation to test the effects of varying salt concentrations on potato cells, a student placed a slice of raw potato into each of three beakers. Different solutions were added to the beakers, and the beakers were sealed. After 24 hours, the condidtion of each potato slice was observed. The results are summarized below:Beaker A (distilled water): very firmBeaker B (2% salt solution): near normal firmnessBeaker C ( 4% salt solution): very flexible, not firmBased on the results above, predict the approximate concentration of water in the cytoplasm of normal potato cells. Support your answer.
Normal potato cells should have about 98% water concentration (2% solute concentration) since the potato in the 2% salt solution is closest to normal firmness. The cells in this solution are not losing or gaining water; therefore the solution is isotonic with the potatoes.
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