Answer: The cell size difference occur as a result of osmotic pressure imbalance between the cell and the salt solution.
Explanation:
- No salt: The swelling and bursting refects the flow of water into the cell caused by the osmotic pressure as the water flows into the cell to reduce the cell's salt concentration. The salt does not move as quickly across the cell membrane, resulting in a swelling and bursting of cells.
- 0.9% salt: This must match the salt concentration in the cell, as there is no apparent water flow to even the internal and external salt concentrations.
- 3.0% salt: The cells shrivel as water is drawn out of the cell to dilute the higher external salt concentration.
