Question

If a cell is placed in a hypotonic solution (one of lower tonicity than the cell contents), what will happen to the blood cells?

A. They will swell and may burst.
B. They will shrink and become dehydrated.
C. They will remain unchanged.
D. They will undergo apoptosis.

Answer 1

In a hypotonic solution, red blood cells will swell as water enters them, potentially leading to hemolysis or bursting of the cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a cell is placed in a hypotonic solution, which has a lower tonicity than the cell contents, red blood cells will swell due to the osmotic flow of water into the cell. This process can lead to the cells swelling to the point of hemolysis, where the cells burst. In contrast, a hypertonic solution causes red blood cells to shrink, and an isotonic solution allows cells to maintain their regular shape, as the balance of water flow into and out of the cells is equal. Red blood cells lack mechanisms to prevent taking on too much water, making them susceptible to bursting in a hypotonic environment.