Hypertonic solution

Hypertonic Solution

A Hypertonic Solution (pronounced: hi-per-TON-ik so-LOO-shun) is a type of solution that has a higher concentration of solutes on the outside of a cell when compared with the inside of the cell. This imbalance of solute concentration can cause water to move out of the cell, leading to cell shrinkage, a process known as Crenation.

Etymology

The term "Hypertonic Solution" is derived from the Greek words 'hyper', meaning 'over' or 'above', and 'tonos', meaning 'tension'. The term is used to describe a solution that has a higher level of tension, or concentration, than another solution.

Related Terms

Isotonic Solution: A solution that has the same concentration of solutes as another solution. In the context of cells, an isotonic solution is one where the concentration of solutes is the same both inside and outside the cell.

Hypotonic Solution: A solution that has a lower concentration of solutes compared to another solution. In the context of cells, a hypotonic solution is one where the concentration of solutes is lower outside the cell, causing water to move into the cell.

Osmosis: The process by which water molecules move from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration, typically through a semi-permeable membrane.

Crenation: The process by which cells shrink and become scalloped or notched as a result of losing water through osmosis when placed in a hypertonic solution.

Plasmolysis: The process in plant cells where the cell membrane pulls away from the cell wall as a result of water loss when the cell is placed in a hypertonic solution.