Hypertonic, Hypotonic, and Isotonic Solutions

Hypertonic Solution

A solution in which the concentration of solute outside the cell is greater than the concentration of solute inside the cell.

Hypotonic Solution

A solution in which the concentration of solute outside the cell is less than the concentration of solute inside the cell.

Isotonic Solution

A solution in which the concentration of solute outside the cell is equal to the concentration of solute inside the cell.

Osmosis

The diffusion of water across a semi-permeable membrane.

Cation

A positively charged ion.

Anion

A negatively charged ion.

Plasmolysis

The process by which a cell shrivels as water leaves the cell.

Cytolysis

The process by which a cell bursts due to excess water influx.

Aquaporins

Membrane channels that facilitate the transport of water across the cell membrane.

Hydration

The interaction of water molecules with solute ions, stabilizing them in solution.