Question

When blood cells are placed in a 1.50% (m/v) solution of NaCl, this is considered: Select one:

O hemolysis
O hypertonic
O hypotonic
O isotonic

Answer 1

Blood cells in a 1.50% NaCl solution are in a hypertonic environment, which will cause the cells to lose water and shrink, a process known as crenation.

Step-by-step explanation:

When blood cells are placed in a 1.50% (m/v) solution of NaCl, this solution is considered to be hypertonic relative to the cells. A healthy red blood cell will maintain a normal shape and function in a solution that is isotonic to it, which typically contains 0.9% (m/v) NaCl. Since 1.50% NaCl has a higher concentration of solute than the isotonic level, water will move out of the blood cells in order to equalize the solute concentration inside and outside of the cells. This outward movement of water causes the cells to shrink, a process known as crenation. It's essential for medical solutions such as IV fluids to be isotonic to avoid causing damage to red blood cells.