Explain why when placed in distilled water a red blood cell would burst but a plant epidermis cell would not

The cytoplasm of both cells has a higher osmolarity/ lower water potential than the distilled water, this causes water to enter the cells via osmosis along the water gradient. The red blood cell is surrounded by a plasma membrane which is relatively weak and bursts with the increased pressure due to the water, whereas the plant cell also contains a cell wall. The cell wall provides more support and so the plant cell wouldn't burst but become turgid, as turgidity increases water influx decreases.

KW

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

what is the difference between homoeostasis and haemostasis


Outline the process that occurs when an action potential arrives at a presynaptic neuron for the transmission to the postsynaptic neuron.


Describe the process by which an action potential is propagated across a cholinergic synapse


Explain how blood glucose levels are controlled and how this is an example of negative feedback mechanisms.