To determine if a solution is isotonic, hypotonic, or hypertonic compared to a red blood cell, we need to consider the concentration of solutes inside the cell and in the surrounding solution.
1. Isotonic solution: A solution where the concentration of solutes is the same as that inside the red blood cell. This means there will be no net movement of water across the cell membrane.
2. Hypotonic solution: A solution where the concentration of solutes is lower than that inside the red blood cell. In a hypotonic solution, water will move into the cell, causing it to swell and potentially burst.
3. Hypertonic solution: A solution where the concentration of solutes is higher than that inside the red blood cell. In a hypertonic solution, water will move out of the cell, causing it to shrink or crenate.
Now, let's analyze the given solutions:
- 4% (m/v) glucose: This solution is isotonic because it has a similar solute concentration to that inside a red blood cell, allowing for no net movement of water.
- 0.9% (m/v) NaCl: This solution is isotonic as well since its solute concentration matches that of a red blood cell.
- Distilled H₂O: This solution is hypotonic because it has a lower solute concentration compared to a red blood cell, leading to water entering the cell.
- 6% (m/v) glucose: This solution is hypertonic because it has a higher solute concentration than a red blood cell, causing water to move out of the cell.
In summary:
- Isotonic solutions: 4% (m/v) glucose, 0.9% (m/v) NaCl
- Hypotonic solution: Distilled H₂O
- Hypertonic solution: 6% (m/v) glucose
Understanding the tonicity of solutions is crucial in understanding how cells respond to different environments and maintain proper balance.
