If cells are placed in a hypertonic solution containing a solute to which the membrane is impermeable, what could happen?
The cells will shrink at first, but will later reach equilibrium with the surrounding solution and return to their original condition.
The cells will show no change due to diffusion of both solute and solvent.
The cells will lose water and shrink.
The cells will swell and ultimately burst.
The Correct Answer is C
A. The cells will shrink at first, but will later reach equilibrium with the surrounding solution and return to their original condition: If the solute cannot cross the membrane, the cells cannot regain water through solute equilibration, so they will not return to their original size.
B. The cells will show no change due to diffusion of both solute and solvent: In a hypertonic solution where the solute is impermeable, only water can move, so diffusion of solute does not occur and the cell will be affected by water loss.
C. The cells will lose water and shrink: Water moves out of the cell by osmosis to balance the higher extracellular solute concentration. The loss of water causes the cells to shrink, a process called crenation.
D. The cells will swell and ultimately burst: Swelling occurs in a hypotonic solution where water enters the cell due to lower solute concentration outside. In a hypertonic solution, the opposite occurs, so bursting does not happen.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Collagen: Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, forming the structural framework of connective tissues such as skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Its fibrous structure provides strength, support, and elasticity to various tissues.
B. Glucose: Glucose is a simple sugar and a primary energy source for cells, not a protein. While essential for metabolism, it does not contribute to the structural protein composition of the body.
C. Hemoglobin: Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport. Although abundant in blood, its overall quantity in the body is far less than collagen.
D. DNA: DNA is a nucleic acid that stores genetic information. It is not a protein, and while present in all cells, it does not contribute to the protein mass in the body.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Maintaining boundaries: Maintaining boundaries refers to the separation between internal and external environments, such as the plasma membrane or skin, and is not directly related to removing carbon dioxide.
B. Excretion of metabolic waste: Expiration removes carbon dioxide, a byproduct of cellular respiration, from the body. This is a primary example of excreting metabolic waste to maintain proper internal chemical balance.
C. Responsiveness: Responsiveness is the ability of the body to detect and react to changes in the environment, such as moving away from a stimulus, which does not involve carbon dioxide removal.
D. Metabolism: Metabolism encompasses all chemical reactions in the body, including producing carbon dioxide as a byproduct. However, the act of exhaling carbon dioxide specifically exemplifies waste excretion, not metabolism itself.
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