What is a hypotonic environment?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for a definition or explanation of what a hypotonic environment is, which is typically a concept in biology relating to solutions and their osmotic pressure compared to another solution.
Answer
When the solute concentration outside the cell is less than inside the cell.
A hypotonic environment is when the solute concentration outside the cell is less than inside the cell.
Answer for screen readers
A hypotonic environment is when the solute concentration outside the cell is less than inside the cell.
More Information
In a hypotonic environment, water will enter the cell, potentially causing it to swell or even burst if it lacks a strong cell wall.
Tips
A common mistake is to confuse hypotonic with hypertonic environments. Remember, 'hypo' means less solute outside the cell, leading to water moving in.
Sources
- Hypertonic and Hypotonic Environments - .hawaii.edu
- Tonicity: hypertonic, isotonic & hypotonic solutions (article) - khanacademy.org
- Hypotonic Solution | Definition, Diagram & Examples - Lesson - study.com
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