Chapter 5, Problem 21RQ

a.

Summary Introduction

To determine: Whether the solution will act as hypertonic, isotonic or hypotonic if the red blood cells having 300 mOsM osmolarity are placed in the solution having 250 mOsM.

Introduction: Solution is defined as a mixture of solute and solvent that provides certain osmotic value to the mixture. The solution can be classified into three categories, namely hypertonic, hypotonic, and isotonic based on the movement of the solvent across the membrane.

b.

Summary Introduction

To determine: Whether water will move outside the cell or inside the cell or  remain constant at both sides if the red blood cells having 300 mOsM osmolarity are placed in the solution having 250 mOsM.

Introduction: A solution can be categorized as hypertonic, hypotonic, or isotonic based on the pattern of flow of water across a semi-permeable membrane. In a hypotonic solution, water moves from the solution to the cell. In case of a hypertonic solution, water moves from the cell to the outside of the cell. In isotonic solution, water remains unaffected on both sides of the membrane.