What are isotonic and hypertonic solutions?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for a comparison between isotonic and hypertonic solutions, likely in terms of their definitions, characteristics, and effects on cells or biological systems.
Answer
Isotonic solutions have equal osmotic pressure, hypertonic have higher osmotic pressure.
An isotonic solution has the same osmotic pressure as another solution, such as bodily fluids, while a hypertonic solution has a higher osmotic pressure, drawing water out from cells.
Answer for screen readers
An isotonic solution has the same osmotic pressure as another solution, such as bodily fluids, while a hypertonic solution has a higher osmotic pressure, drawing water out from cells.
More Information
Isotonic solutions maintain cell size by balancing the inward and outward flow of water, while hypertonic solutions can cause cells to shrink as water moves out to balance solute concentrations across the membrane.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing isotonic and hypertonic solutions. Remember that 'iso-' means equal and 'hyper-' indicates higher concentration of solutes outside the cell.
Sources
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