Which physiological state increases turgor in cells?

• A. Dehydration
• B. Hypotonicity
• C. Hypertonicity
• D. Isotonicity

Answer: (B)

The correct answer is hypotonicity, which refers to a condition where the concentration of solutes outside the cell is lower than that inside the cell. In a hypotonic environment, water moves into the cell through osmosis in an attempt to equalize solute concentrations. This influx of water causes the cells to swell and increases turgor pressure, which is the rigidity and firmness of the plant or animal cells.

Turgor pressure is vital for maintaining cell structure, especially in plant cells, as it keeps them upright and supports the overall plant structure. High turgor pressure also plays a role in various physiological functions, including growth, development, and responses to environmental stresses.

Dehydration, hypertonicity, and isotonicity do not enhance turgor pressure. Dehydration involves the loss of water, leading to reduced turgor pressure, while hypertonicity results in water leaving the cell, causing it to shrink and lose structural integrity. Isotonicity, on the other hand, maintains balance without changing the turgor pressure because the solute concentration is equal inside and outside the cell.