Which statement concerning hypotonicity is correct?
A) During hypotonicity, water enters the cells by osmosis.
B) The only cause of hypotonicity is drinking excess fluid.
C) Hypotonicity is a major consequence of diabetes mellitus, which is a deficiency of vasopressin.
D) Hypotonicity is usually associated with a negative water balance.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hypotonicity refers to a condition where there is a higher concentration of solutes in the extracellular fluid compared to the intracellular fluid. This causes water to move from the extracellular space into the cells by osmosis, leading to swelling and potential cell damage. Drinking excess fluid can contribute to hypotonicity, but other causes include low levels of electrolytes in the blood or impaired kidney function. Diabetes mellitus can also cause hypotonicity, but it is due to excess urine output and loss of vasopressin. Hypotonicity is associated with a positive water balance, not a negative one.

Which Statement Concerning Hypotonicity Is Correct