Why does the mass of a potato chip decrease after it is left in a concentrated sugar solution?

The water potential of the concentrated sugar solution is much lower than the water potential inside the cells of the potato chip. Therefore, the water molecules move down a concentration gradient out of the potato cells and into the solution. This causes the chip to shrink because it has lost the mass of water, therefore decreasing its overall mass.

TM
Answered by Tasneem M. Biology tutor

16136 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What are the two main differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?


What is the basis of DNA replication?


What are the causes of genetic mutations ?


Explain the difference between active transport and osmosis (3)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning