Plasmolysis
Plasmolysis
Plasmolysis (/plæzˈmɒlɪsɪs/; from the Greek words plasma meaning 'molded' and lysis meaning 'loosening') is a process that occurs when cells are exposed to such a strong hypertonic solution that water from inside the cells is drawn out, causing the cell to shrink.
Etymology
The term "plasmolysis" is derived from the Greek words plasma which means 'molded' and lysis which means 'loosening'. It was first used in the late 19th century to describe the contraction of the cell as a result of water loss.
Process
In a hypertonic environment, water moves out of the cell through the process of osmosis. As water leaves the cell, the cytoplasm shrinks and the cell membrane pulls away from the cell wall, a process known as plasmolysis. This can lead to the cell becoming plasmolysed.
Effects
Plasmolysis can be harmful to cells, leading to decreased cellular function or even cell death. However, some organisms can tolerate plasmolysis better than others. For example, halophytes are plants that can survive in high salt environments where plasmolysis is more likely to occur.
Related Terms
- Hypertonic solution: A solution with a higher concentration of solutes than the cell. This causes water to move out of the cell and into the solution, leading to plasmolysis.
- Osmosis: The process by which water moves from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.
- Cytoplasm: The material within a cell, excluding the nucleus, which contains all the organelles.
- Cell membrane: The semipermeable membrane surrounding the cytoplasm of a cell.
- Halophytes: Plants that can survive in high salt environments.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Plasmolysis
- Wikipedia's article - Plasmolysis
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