The GATE Grind

GATE 2021 BM – Question 25

Biomechanics · Soft Tissue Mechanics · 1 mark · Multiple choice

Treat blood as red cells suspended in a Newtonian fluid. What is the intended effect of flow-induced shear forces on red-cell orientation?

  1. Randomize orientation
  2. Align long axes with streamlines
  3. Align short axes with streamlines
  4. Create equal populations aligned along long and short axes

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (B) Align long axes with streamlines

Explanation

The simplified flow model in the question treats shear as orienting elongated/deformed red cells with their long axes along the flow streamlines, reducing resistance. Thus B is the intended orientation. Actual red-cell dynamics can include tank-treading or tumbling depending on shear and mechanical properties; the stated model selects alignment.

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