Which of the following describes the process where inflammation leads to redness and swelling?

The process through which inflammation results in redness and swelling is best described by the term "rubor." This Latin term specifically refers to one of the classic signs of inflammation, which also includes calor (heat), tumor (swelling), and dolor (pain). When inflammation occurs, the body's immune response causes blood vessels to dilate and increase in permeability. This dilation allows more blood to flow to the affected area, resulting in the characteristic redness, while the increased permeability leads to the accumulation of fluid, causing swelling.

In contrast, while edema is associated with swelling, it is a broader term that refers to the accumulation of fluid in tissues and may not specifically indicate the inflammatory process. Hemostasis pertains to the stopping of blood flow following injury, and chronic inflammation describes a prolonged inflammatory response that can result from persistent stimuli. Therefore, in the context of inflammation that leads to redness and swelling, "rubor" is the most accurate description.