Question

hypotonic vs hypertonic

Answer 1

A hypotonic solution is a solution having a lesser solute concentration than the cytosol. It contains a lesser concentration of impermeable solutes on the external side of the membrane. When a cell’s cytoplasm is bathed in a hypotonic solution the water will be drawn out of the solution and into the cell by osmosis. If water molecules continue to diffuse into the cell, it will cause the cell to swell, up to the point that cytolysis (rupture) may occur.

A hypertonic solution is a solution having a greater solute concentration than the cytosol. It contains a greater concentration of impermeable solutes on the external side of the membrane. When a cell’s cytoplasm is bathed in a hypertonic solution the water will be drawn into the solution and out of the cell by osmosis. If water molecules continue to diffuse out of the cell, it will cause the cell to shrink, or crenate.