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-   -   Does the erythrocyte become haemolysed if the solution is still clear (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=591498)

  • Aug 7, 2011, 01:54 AM
    nurain
    Does the erythrocyte become haemolysed if the solution is still clear
    Does the erythrocyte become haemolysed if the solution is still clear
  • Aug 7, 2011, 11:52 AM
    jcaron2
    Since this is at least the second time I've seen this question with the same wording, it's pretty obvious this is for homework or a test.

    In either event, you've either neglected to include some sort of illustration or background information (in which case, how could you possibly expect anyone to be able to help you?) or it's a really poorly worded question.

    Here's my answer from the last time someone posted this (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/biology/does-erythrocyte-become-haemolysed-if-solution-still-clear-587822.html):



    Quote:

    Originally Posted by jcaron2 View Post
    Still clear? I'm not an expert in this area, but if my memory serves me correctly, I'm pretty certain the solution starts out cloudy (due to scattering of light by the healthy erythrocytes) and becomes clear if haemolysis takes place (i.e. the solution is hypotonic to the cells). The osmotic pressure into the cells causes them to lyse. This releases hemoglobin into the solution, turning it a deeper shade of red, but also resulting in clarification (since there are no longer whole cells to scatter the light). Since lysing is obviously irreversible, I can't see why you'd expect the solution to to ever change from being clear.


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