Hypotonic Solution

Hypotonic Solution

A solution with a lower solute concentration than the cell is called a hypotonic solution. Combinations of a solute and a solvent are called solutions. Substances that are present in smaller amounts are known as solutes, whereas substances that are present in larger amounts are known as solvents. Salt water is one example of a hypotonic solution.

Definition

A solution with a lower solute concentration than the cell is called a hypotonic solution. Combinations of a solute and a solvent are called solutions. Substances that are present in smaller amounts are known as solutes, whereas substances that are present in larger amounts are known as solvents.

Types of Hypotonic Solution

  1. 0.45% NaCl-0.45% Sodium Chloride
  2. 0.33% NaCl-0.33% Sodium Chloride
  3. 0.225% Nacl-0.225% Sodium Chloride
  4. D2.5W-2.5% Dextrose in Water

Characteristics

1. Lower Solute Concentration


Hypotonic arrangements have a lower concentration of solutes (such as salts or sugars) compared to the interior of a cell. This makes a slope where water tends to move from the arrangement into the cell.


2. Higher Water Concentration


Since they have less solutes, hypotonic arrangements have a better concentration of water atoms relative to the cell insides.


3. Osmotic Weight

The osmotic weight of a hypotonic arrangement is lower than that of the intracellular liquid. Osmotic weight drives the development of water into the cell, driving to potential swelling of the cell.


4. Cellular Impacts


When cells are put in a hypotonic arrangement, water enters the cells through osmosis, which can cause the cells to swell and possibly burst (lyse) on the off chance that the deluge of water is as well extraordinary.

5. Cellular Effects

When cells are placed in a hypotonic solution, water enters the cells via osmosis, which can cause the cells to swell and potentially burst (lyse) if the influx of water is too great.

6. Clinical Uses

Hypotonic solutions are used in clinical settings to rehydrate cells and tissues. They can treat conditions like hypernatremia (high sodium levels) where a gradual decrease in blood sodium concentration is needed

  Example of Hypotonic Solution

As we have learnt, there are three classifications of tonicity – hypertonic solution, isotonic solution and hypotonic solution. In a hypertonic solution, there is a higher concentration of solutes compared to that of the inside of the cell. On the contrary, in an isotonic solution, there is no net flow of water in or out of the cell, and the concentration of the solute is the same, both inside and outside the cell.

The first solution in the figure is a hypotonic solution. Here, the size of the cell increases and the cell swells as there is a net flow of water in the cell. If the concentration of solute outside the cell is lower compared to that of the inside, solutes cannot move across the membrane.

The second solution in the figure is a hypertonic solution. Here, the size of the cell decreases, it shrinks. The water molecules move out of the cell into the solution. As a result of the movement of water from the cell to the outside, cells get distorted and wrinkled. The effect is referred to as the creation of the cell.

The last solution seen in the figure is an isotonic solution. Here, the size of the cell remains intact, it does not change. There is no net flow of water either way, into the cell or out of the cell. The volume of the cell remains stable. If the concentration of solutes outside the cells is the same as that of the inside, the solutes are unable to cross the membrane.

Frequently Asked Question

1. What is a hypotonic solution?

A hypotonic solution has a lower concentration of solutes compared to the inside of a cell. This causes water to move into the cell by osmosis

2. What happens to a cell in a hypotonic solution?

When a cell is placed in a hypotonic solution, water enters the cell, causing it to swell. If too much water enters, the cell may burst (lyse).

3. Can hypotonic solutions be dangerous?

Yes, if not used properly, hypotonic solutions can cause cells to take in too much water and burst, which can be harmful, especially in sensitive tissues like the brain.

4. How does a hypotonic solution affect plant cells?

In plant cells, a hypotonic solution causes water to enter the cell, leading to turgor pressure. The cell wall prevents bursting, making the cell firm and helping the plant stay upright.

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