Which term describes a cell that has taken in water and is swollen?

Prepare for the UCF BSC2010C Biology I Exam. Engage with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Boost your confidence and ace your exam!

The term that describes a cell that has taken in water and is swollen is turgid. In plant cells, turgidity occurs when water enters the cell via osmosis, causing the central vacuole to swell. This swelling exerts pressure against the cell wall, resulting in a firm and upright structure. Turgor pressure is essential for maintaining the plant's shape and overall health.

In contrast, when cells lose water, they may exhibit features such as crenation in animal cells, where the cell shrivels, or other states indicating a lack of internal pressure. The process of moving water in or out of cells can also involve diffusion, but this does not describe the state of being swollen as turgidity does. Therefore, turgid is the appropriate term to indicate the state of a cell that has absorbed water and become swollen.

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