What is it called when the external solution is more concentrated than the cell cytoplasm?

What is it called when the external solution is more concentrated than the cell cytoplasm?

• A. Hypotonic
• B. Hypertonic
• C. Isotonic
• D. Osmotic

Answer: (B)

When the external solution is more concentrated than the cell cytoplasm, it is referred to as hypertonic. In this scenario, the concentration of solutes outside the cell is higher than that inside the cell. This causes water to move out of the cell through osmosis in an attempt to balance the solute concentrations on both sides of the cell membrane. As water leaves the cell, the cell may shrink or become crenated. Understanding the concept of tonicity—how solute concentrations affect water movement and cell shape—is essential for comprehending cellular behavior in various environments.

When the external solution is more concentrated than the cell cytoplasm, it is referred to as hypertonic. In this scenario, the concentration of solutes outside the cell is higher than that inside the cell. This causes water to move out of the cell through osmosis in an attempt to balance the solute concentrations on both sides of the cell membrane. As water leaves the cell, the cell may shrink or become crenated. Understanding the concept of tonicity—how solute concentrations affect water movement and cell shape—is essential for comprehending cellular behavior in various environments.