When the concentration of solute molecules outside the cell is lower than the concentration of solute in the cytosol , the solution outside is hypotonic to the cytosol. If the concentration of solute molecules is higher outside of the cell, the solution outside is said to be hypertonic. The solution outside is isotonic if the concentration is equal on both sides of the cell membrane.
The egg shell is made of calcium carbonate and vinegar contains acetic acid. These two can react to produce calcium acetate and carbonic acid which then decompose into water and carbon dioxide as shown in the two chemical equations:
The eggs will increase in mass in all three solutions, showing that diffusion and osmosis occur when the concentration of two solutions is different, so that equilibrium can be established.
Materials:
To conduct this experiment, these materials will be needed: 1-2 fresh hen eggs in their shells, masking tape and marker, distilled water, clear sugar syrup, vinegar, clear jar with lid, tongs, electronic balance, paper towels, paper, and a pencil.