"Hypotonic" describes a solution that has a lower concentration of solutes compared to another solution, often a cell. This means there is less dissolved material in the hypotonic solution than in the solution it's being compared to. When a cell is placed in a hypotonic solution, water moves from the area of higher concentration (the hypotonic solution) to the area of lower concentration (inside the cell) through a process called osmosis. This movement of water into the cell can cause it to swell or even burst.
Here are some key points to remember about hypotonic solutions:
- Lower solute concentration: Hypotonic solutions have a lower concentration of solutes compared to the solution they're being compared to.
- Water movement: Water moves from a hypotonic solution into a cell through osmosis.
- Cell swelling: The influx of water into the cell can cause it to swell.
Examples:
- Red blood cells in distilled water: Distilled water is hypotonic compared to the interior of a red blood cell. As a result, water rushes into the cell, causing it to swell and potentially burst.
- Plant cells in hypotonic solution: Plant cells have a rigid cell wall that prevents them from bursting. When placed in a hypotonic solution, water moves into the cell, creating turgor pressure, which helps maintain the plant's structure.
Practical Insights:
- Intravenous fluids: Hypotonic solutions are sometimes used in intravenous fluids to rehydrate patients who are dehydrated.
- Agriculture: Understanding tonicity is crucial in agriculture for optimizing plant growth and water management.
