Which of the following is the effect of a hypertonic solution on a red blood cell?
The volume of the cell decreases
The permeability of the cell membrane decreases
The permeability of the cell membrane increases.
The volume of the cell increases.
The Correct Answer is A
a. The volume of the cell decreases: When a red blood cell is placed in a hypertonic solution (solution with a higher concentration of solutes outside the cell compared to inside), water will move out of the cell through osmosis to equalize the concentration on both sides of the cell membrane. This movement of water causes the red blood cell to shrink (crenate).
b. The permeability of the cell membrane decreases: Incorrect. The permeability of the cell membrane to water remains relatively constant.
c. The permeability of the cell membrane increases: Incorrect. Osmosis is a passive process that doesn't require increased permeability.
d. The volume of the cell increases: Incorrect. A hypertonic solution will cause the cell to lose water and shrink.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a. Sodium: Correct. Sodium (Na⁺) is the primary extracellular cation and plays a crucial role in maintaining osmotic pressure and fluid balance in the body.
b. Magnesium: Magnesium (Mg²⁺) is important for many cellular functions but is not a major contributor to osmotic pressure compared to sodium.
c. Calcium: Calcium (Ca²⁺) is vital for bone health and cellular processes but does not primarily influence osmotic pressure.
d. Potassium: Potassium (K⁺) is the main intracellular cation and affects cell function, but sodium has a more significant role in osmotic pressure regulation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
a: Chest cavity compresses the lungs - This is incorrect; during inspiration, the chest cavity expands, not compresses.
b: Length of the thoracic cavity decreases - This is incorrect; during inspiration, the thoracic cavity increases in length as it expands.
c. Diameter of the thoracic cavity increases. When inspiratory muscles contract, such as the diaphragm and external intercostal muscles, the thoracic cavity expands, increasing its volume. This expansion decreases the pressure within the lungs, causing air to flow in (inspiration).
d: Diaphragm rises up in the abdomen - This is incorrect; during inspiration, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, not upward.
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