If the extracellular fluid (ECF) becomes hypotonic with respect to the intracellular fluid (ICF), which event will likely occur?
A) Water will move from the cells into the ECF.
B) Metabolic generation of water occurs.
C) Water will move from the ECF into the cells.
D) The volume of the ICF will decrease.
E) A large change in the osmotic concentration of the ECF occurs.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When the ECF becomes hypotonic with respect to the ICF, water will move from the ECF into the cells in an attempt to equalize the concentration of solutes on both sides of the cell membrane. This can potentially cause the cells to swell and even burst if proper mechanisms are not in place to regulate water movement.

If the Extracellular Fluid (ECF) Becomes Hypotonic with Respect to the Intracellular