Answered

Why do erythrocytes swell and burst when placed in water?

ASince water concentration is higher outside the cell, water moves inward by passive diffusion.
BSince hemoglobin concentration is higher inside the cell, hemoglobin moves outward by exocytosis.
CSince potassium ions are more concentrated inside the cells, potassium ions move outward by osmosis.
DErythrocytes pump water inward by active transport to balance osmotic gradients.
EWater is a universal solvent and simply dissolves the erythrocyte membranes.

Verified Answer :

A.
There is more sodium inside the cell than outside. There is a saying that "water follows salt". It is found in the case of osmosis and the semipermeable membrane around the cell. In this case there is more salt inside so water will move inside. The cell can break with too much water.

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