7. Hypotonic or Hypertonic or Isotonic solution

What is a hypotonic solution?

Lower solute concentration outside the cell; water enters the cell. Cell may swell and burst.

What happens to a cell in a hypotonic solution?

Water moves into the cell, causing it to swell and potentially burst (lyse).

Example of a hypotonic solution?

Example of a hypotonic solution?

What is a hypertonic solution?

Higher solute concentration outside the cell; water leaves the cell. Cell may shrink.

What happens to a cell in a hypertonic solution?

Water moves out of the cell, causing it to shrink and become crenated.

Example of a hypertonic solution?

Seawater (higher solute concentration than inside the cell).

What is an isotonic solution?

Equal solute concentration inside and outside the cell; no net water movement. Cell remains stable.

What happens to a cell in an isotonic solution?

Water moves in and out at the same rate; cell remains stable and unchanged.

Example of an isotonic solution?

0.9% sodium chloride (normal saline).