Tonicity DOL

Front

What is tonicity?

Back

Tonicity refers to the ability of a solution to affect the volume of a cell by osmosis, determining whether water will enter or leave the cell.

Front

Define isotonic solution.

Back

An isotonic solution is one that has the same concentration of solutes as the cell, resulting in no net movement of water.

Front

Define hypertonic solution.

Back

A hypertonic solution has a higher concentration of solutes compared to the cell, causing water to leave the cell and leading to cell shrinkage.

Front

Define hypotonic solution.

Back

A hypotonic solution has a lower concentration of solutes compared to the cell, causing water to enter the cell and potentially leading to cell swelling or bursting.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypertonic solution?

Back

The cell loses water, shrinks, and may become crenated.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypotonic solution?

Back

The cell gains water, swells, and may eventually burst (lyse).

Front

What is homeostasis?

Back

Homeostasis is the process by which living organisms maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.

Front

What is the relationship between tonicity and homeostasis?

Back

Tonicity affects the movement of water in and out of cells, which is crucial for maintaining homeostasis.

Front

What is an example of a hypotonic solution?

Back

Pure water is an example of a hypotonic solution when compared to the cytoplasm of a cell.

Front

What is an example of a hypertonic solution?

Back

A concentrated salt solution is an example of a hypertonic solution.