Final answer:
Ethylene glycol is a substance that can minimize osmotic imbalances in cells during freezing by preventing ice crystal formation and maintaining cell integrity.
Correct option is A
Step-by-step explanation:
An example of a substance that can minimize the osmotic imbalances of cells during freezing is ethylene glycol. Ethylene glycol is commonly used in antifreeze solutions for vehicles because it is a molecular compound that can lower the freezing point of water. When cells are exposed to freezing temperatures, the use of an agent like ethylene glycol can prevent ice crystal formation within the cells, thereby maintaining their integrity and function.
In a hypotonic or hypertonic solution, cells will respectively swell and burst or shrivel and possibly die due to osmotic pressure. This is why isotonic solutions, such as 0.31 M glucose or 0.16 M NaCl, which have the same osmolarity as the inside of cells, are vital to maintain the health of cells under stress, including freezing conditions.