Question

red blood cells placed in a hypotonic solution will ______.
○ gain water and undergo hemolysis
○ lose water and undergo crenation
○ lose water and undergo hemolysis
○ gain water and undergo crenation

Explanation:

A hypotonic solution has a lower solute concentration (higher water potential) than the inside of red blood cells. By osmosis, water moves from the hypotonic solution (higher water potential) into the red blood cells (lower water potential). Gaining water causes the red blood cells to swell and eventually burst, a process called hemolysis. Crenation occurs in hypertonic solutions (cells lose water and shrink), so options with crenation are incorrect. Options with losing water are also incorrect as hypotonic solutions lead to water gain.

Answer:

A. gain water and undergo hemolysis