What kind of reaction did the gummy bear soaked in salt water had during the gummy bear lab?

In the gummy bear lab, the gummy bear soaked in salt water typically shrinks and becomes firmer. This reaction occurs due to osmosis, where water moves out of the bear into the saltier solution, causing the gummy bear to lose moisture and decrease in size. The salt in the water creates a hypertonic environment, pulling water molecules away from the gummy bear. As a result, the gummy bear's texture changes, and it appears smaller and denser.