Deplasmolysis is the process where a plasmolyzed cell, which has shrunk due to water loss in a hypertonic environment, recovers its normal size and shape. This happens when the cell is placed in a hypotonic solution, causing water to move back into the cell through endosmosis. In essence, deplasmolysis is the reversal of plasmolysis.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Plasmolysis: The cell shrinks as water moves out of the cell due to a higher concentration of solutes outside the cell.
- Deplasmolysis: The cell swells as water moves back into the cell due to a higher concentration of solutes inside the cell.
Examples of Deplasmolysis:
- A plant cell placed in a salt solution will undergo plasmolysis. If this cell is then transferred to pure water, it will regain its turgor pressure and expand, demonstrating deplasmolysis.
- A red blood cell placed in a concentrated salt solution will shrink. If the cell is then placed in distilled water, it will swell and potentially burst.
Deplasmolysis is a critical process for plant cells, allowing them to maintain their turgor pressure, which is essential for their structural integrity and functions.
