Question

An RBC and a plant cell (with thick cell wall) are placed in distilled water. The solute concentration is the same in both the cells. What changes would be observed in them?

• A. Both plant cell and RBC would decrease in size and collapse
• B. Both plant cell and RBC would not undergo any change
• C. The RBC would increase in size and burst while the plant cell would remain about the same size
• D. The plant cell would increase in size and burst while the RBC would remain about the same

Answer 1

The correct option is C The RBC would increase in size and burst while the plant cell would remain about the same size

In both cases, endosmosis happens and the cells swell up. The RBC will ultimately burst. However, the plant cell will remain the same size due to the presence of a cell wall.