191k views
3 votes
When a red blood cell is placed in solutions, what outcome is expected?

A) Crenation
B) Hemolysis
C) Neither
D) All of the above

User Wzberger
by
8.7k points

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

When a red blood cell is placed in solutions, the expected outcomes are hemolysis in a hypotonic solution, no change in an isotonic solution, and crenation in a hypertonic solution.

Step-by-step explanation:

A red blood cell placed in a hypotonic solution will become visibly swollen and may potentially rupture due to water rushing into the cell. This process is called hemolysis. On the other hand, when a red blood cell is placed in an isotonic solution, it will retain its normal shape as the amount of water entering the cell is the same as the amount leaving the cell. In a hypertonic solution, the red blood cell will appear to shrink as water flows out of the cell and into the surrounding environment, a process known as crenation.

User Mahi Tej Gvp
by
8.3k points