Cell Transport Lab

Objective: Demonstrate the process of cell transport through the utilization of hypotonic, hypertonic and isotonic solutions.

Hypothesis: In a hypertonic solution the grape will:

In an isotonic solution the grape will:

In a hypotonic solution the grape will:

Materials: grapes, beakers, salt, water, grape juice, scales

Methods: 1. Fill the three beakers with 150 mL of: Water, Grape Juice, Saturated Saltwater Solution

2. Weigh three grapes and record their weights.

3. Submerge one grape in each beaker. Be sure to record which grape went into which beaker. You may have to place a smaller beaker on top of the grapes to keep them submerged.

4. Allow the grapes to sit for 24 hours.

5. Remove each grape and re-weigh them, recording the weights.

Results: Solution Pre-Weight Post-Weight Difference (+/-) Grape Juice Water Salt Water

Discussion: 1. Explain why you observed each of the weight differences in the experiment.

2. What does the grape represent in this experiment?

3. How could you have altered the experiment to make it more effective?

4. What method of cell transport is taking place in this experiment? Why is this method of cell transport important for your body?

5. How would your experiment differ if you replaced the grape with a different object? Explain your response.

6. After becoming sick with a sore throat, you go to the doctor’s office. The doctor prescribes gargling with salt water. Explain the doctor’s treatment in terms of osmosis. Be sure to use hypertonic, hypotonic and isotonic in your response.