Apentix/AP Biology/Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function/Question
AP Biologymediummcq1 pt

Engineered cells carrying extra aquaporins swell twice as fast as normal cells in dilute buffer, yet settle at the same final swollen volume. Which conclusion is best supported?

A.Aquaporins burn ATP to pump water inward until cells reach twice their normal size.
B.Dilute buffer mutates aquaporin genes and enlarges the cells' target volume.
C.Aquaporins raise water permeability, increasing flux rate without changing the equilibrium volume.
D.Water flows against its gradient in engineered cells, reversing ordinary osmosis.

Explanation

Core Concept

Equilibrium volume is fixed solely by the water potential difference between buffer and cytoplasm, which the added channels did not alter. Rate and endpoint are separable properties: channels govern speed, not destination. The data therefore measure permeability, not a change in osmotic balance.

Correct Answer

CAquaporins raise water permeability, increasing flux rate without changing the equilibrium volume.

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