In cystic fibrosis, if chloride ions cannot leave a cell due to a genetic defect, then what happens to the water in relationship to that cell?

The correct answer is - due to osmosis water retained in the cell.

Explanation:

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that is autosomal recessive and occurs if the offspring of the generation get one copy of the mutated gene from both parents, affects the digestive system and lung in the child. It can be life-threatening.

If cystic fibrosis causes a genetic defect in which the chloride ions can not move out of the cell. This is abnormal in cells which cause water to retained in the cell and make it thick than the normal due to osmosis. This is the case that leads to the produce thick mucus in the digestive tract or lungs.

Thus, the correct answer is - due to osmosis water retained in the cells.