Question

Explain the terms isotonic solution, crenation, and hemolysis.

Short answer

An isotonic solution has an equal concentration of solutes inside and outside the cell, maintaining the cell's shape and volume. Crenation occurs when a cell is placed in a hypertonic solution, causing water to leave the cell, which in turn leads to shrinkage and an irregular appearance. Hemolysis refers to the rupture of red blood cells in a hypotonic solution, where water enters the cells, causing them to swell and burst, leading to potential health complications.

Step-by-step solution

1. Isotonic Solution

An isotonic solution is a solution in which the concentration of solutes is equal both inside and outside a cell. When a cell is placed in an isotonic solution, there is no net movement of water across the cell membrane, which means the cell maintains its shape and volume. In a biological context, this is important because it ensures that cells do not swell or shrink, thus maintaining their function and structure.

2. Crenation

Crenation refers to the shrinkage of a cell when it is placed in a hypertonic solution, which has a higher concentration of solutes outside the cell compared to inside. In this situation, water moves out of the cell by osmosis, causing the cell membrane to pull away from the cell wall, and leading to the cell's irregular and shrunken appearance. This process can be damaging to the cell's function and may lead to cell death if not reversed promptly.

3. Hemolysis

Hemolysis is the process where red blood cells (RBCs) rupture and release their contents (hemoglobin) into the surrounding fluid, typically as a result of being in a hypotonic solution. A hypotonic solution has a lower concentration of solutes outside the cell compared to inside, causing water to move into the cell by osmosis. As water enters the RBCs, they swell and eventually burst, a process known as hemolysis. Hemolysis can have severe consequences in a biological context, as it can lead to anemia, organ damage, and other health complications.