Lab 4 Flashcards
Know what happens to an RBC when placed in isotonic, hypotonic, and hypertonic solution Define diffusion Define osmosis
1
Q
What happens to red blood cells placed in an isotonic solution?
A
No net movement of water, the cell maintains its normal shape.
2
Q
What happens to a red blood cell in a hypotonic solution?
A
Water enters the cell, causing it to swell and potentially burst (hemolysis).
3
Q
What happens to a red blood cell in a hypertonic solution?
A
Water leaves the cell, causing it to shrink (creation).
4
Q
What is diffusion?
A
Diffusion is the passive movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration until equilibrium is achieved.
5
Q
What is osmosis?
A
Osmosis is the passive movement of water across a semipermeable membrane from a lower concentration of solutes to a higher concentration until equilibrium is achieved.
