Question

RBC when placed in hypertonic solution will:

• A. Shrink
• B. Swell up
• C. Not change in form
• D. Burst

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Shrink

The correct option is A:

Explanation of the correct option:

1. A hypertonic solution is one that has a higher solute concentration outside the cell than inside.
2. So, water concentration is more inside the cell than the outside.
3. Thus, water will move from the cell to the surrounding.
4. So, RBCs when placed in a hypertonic solution will shrink.

Explanation of the incorrect option:

Option B:

The cell will swell up when placed in a hypotonic solution, not hypertonic.

Option C:

When RBC is placed in an isotonic solution, there will not be any change in its form.

Option D:

RBC will burst in a strong hypotonic solution.

Final answer: RBC when placed in hypertonic solution will shrink.