What kind of cell shape and morphology do red blood cells in distilled water have?
The correct answer and explanation is:
In distilled water, red blood cells (RBCs) undergo a process called hemolysis, where they swell and eventually burst due to the osmotic imbalance. The morphology of RBCs in distilled water changes significantly. Normally, RBCs have a biconcave disc shape, which allows for efficient gas exchange, but in distilled water, their shape changes due to the influx of water.
When RBCs are placed in distilled water, the surrounding solution has a much lower concentration of solutes (such as salts) compared to the inside of the cell. This creates an osmotic gradient where water moves from the lower solute concentration (the distilled water) to the higher solute concentration inside the RBCs. As water enters the cell, the RBC begins to swell, and the cell membrane stretches. The cell loses its characteristic biconcave shape and becomes more spherical as it fills with water.
If the RBC continues to absorb water, it eventually reaches a point where the membrane can no longer withstand the pressure. The membrane ruptures, causing the cell to burst and release its hemoglobin into the surrounding solution. This is known as hemolysis.
In summary, in distilled water, RBCs undergo significant morphological changes. Initially, their biconcave shape becomes more spherical due to the absorption of water. If the osmotic imbalance is not corrected, the cells eventually burst, resulting in hemolysis. This process demonstrates the importance of osmotic balance in maintaining the integrity of RBCs in normal physiological conditions.