Tonicity Practice Flashcard

Front

What is a hypotonic solution?

Back

A hypotonic solution has a lower concentration of solutes compared to the inside of the cell, causing water to move into the cell.

Front

What is a hypertonic solution?

Back

A hypertonic solution has a higher concentration of solutes compared to the inside of the cell, causing water to move out of the cell.

Front

What is an isotonic solution?

Back

An isotonic solution has an equal concentration of solutes inside and outside the cell, resulting in no net movement of water.

Front

What is passive transport?

Back

Passive transport is the movement of substances across a cell membrane without the use of energy, typically along the concentration gradient.

Front

What is active transport?

Back

Active transport is the movement of substances across a cell membrane against the concentration gradient, requiring energy.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypotonic solution?

Back

The cell swells as water enters, which can lead to bursting if the difference in concentration is significant.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypertonic solution?

Back

The cell shrinks as water exits, which can lead to dehydration and loss of function.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Front

What is the role of the cell membrane in tonicity?

Back

The cell membrane regulates the movement of water and solutes, maintaining the cell's internal environment.

Front

What is the significance of tonicity in biology?

Back

Tonicity affects cell shape, function, and overall health, influencing processes like nutrient absorption and waste removal.