Compared to a Cell with Few Aquaporins in Its Membrane

Question

Compared to a cell with few aquaporins in its membrane, a cell containing many aquaporins will
A) have a faster rate of osmosis.
B) have a lower water potential.
C) have a higher water potential.
D) have a faster rate of active transport.
E) be flaccid.

Accepted Answer

Aquaporins are channels in the membrane that allow for the facilitated diffusion of water. Therefore, a cell with many aquaporins will have a faster rate of osmosis compared to a cell with few aquaporins. This means that water will move in and out of the cell more quickly, resulting in a faster rate of water movement. Choice B and E can be ruled out because the number of aquaporins in the membrane does not affect water potential or cell turgor pressure. Choice D is incorrect because aquaporins facilitate the diffusion of water, not active transport.