England winger Henry Arundell was dismissed just before the interval after collecting two yellow cards in quick succession at Murrayfield.
His initial booking came for illegally using his hands at the breakdown, sending him to the sin bin for 10 minutes.
Shortly after returning to the pitch, Arundell committed a second offence when he made contact with Scotland's Kyle Steyn during an aerial challenge.
The crowd responded with boos and jeers as referee Nika Amashukeli produced another yellow card.
Under current regulations, two yellows automatically convert to a red, meaning Arundell's afternoon was over.
In cases where the referee deems it a technical foul, such as accidental head contact, the referee can issue a 20-minute red card to a player.
England must now operate with fourteen players for 20 minutes before they can introduce a substitute.
The dismissal leaves Steve Borthwick's side facing a significant spell of numerical disadvantage during a crucial period of the second half.
Under current regulations, two yellows automatically convert to a red, meaning Arundell's afternoon was over
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Only once the 20-minute punishment expires can England bring on a replacement, though Arundell himself cannot return to the field.
It is the first time this rule has been in place during the Six Nations.
The visitors appeared completely stunned by the rapid deterioration of their position.
Having built a reputation for defensive solidity in recent months, England's tackling has fallen apart spectacularly, with 20 missed tackles recorded before the break.
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England winger Henry Arundell was dismissed just before the interval
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England headed into the break trailing Scotland 24-10 in this Calcutta Cup encounter, their first-half performance descending into chaos.
The hosts had established a commanding 17-0 advantage before England could find any rhythm whatsoever.
Although the visitors managed to claw their way back into contention, their defensive frailties proved catastrophic.
The match has been played at a relentless tempo, with neither side allowing any respite.
Jamie Ritchie appeared to pick up a leg injury late in the half, adding to the drama.
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