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
Answered by Kelvin W. Biology tutor

23797 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the myelin sheath?


Explain the importance of mRNA in the process of protein synthesis and problems that can occur if there is a problem with the mRNA template?


How is starch digested?


Some poisons work by interfering with synaptic transmission at a neuromuscular junction. Describe the events at a synapse which lead to an action potential.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning