Focus on comparing hypertonic and hypotonic solutions.
Hypertonic Solutions
Definition: Higher concentration of solute than intracellular fluid (ICF).
Prefix: "Hyper" indicates high or above normal levels of solute.
Solute and Water Interaction:
More solute in the extracellular fluid (ECF) means less free water.
Example: If ICF has 4 solute particles, ECF might have 6.
Water Movement:
Water moves from higher concentration to lower concentration (osmosis).
Results in net movement of water out of the cell.
Effects on Cells:
Cells in hypertonic solutions lose fluid and decrease in volume.
This shrinkage of the cell is termed as "crenation".
Hypotonic Solutions
Definition: Lower concentration of solute than ICF, hence more water.
Prefix: "Hypo" indicates low or below normal levels of solute.
Solute and Water Interaction:
Less solute in ECF results in more free water.
Example: If ICF has 4 solute particles, ECF might have 2.
Water Movement:
Water moves into the cell due to osmosis.
Results in net movement of water into the cell.
Effects on Cells:
Cells in hypotonic solutions gain fluid and increase in volume.
This swelling of the cell can lead to an increase in size represented by a dotted line.
Summary of Tonicity
Tonicity Definition: The ability of the extracellular fluid to make water move into or out of a cell due to osmosis.
Hypertonic Solution Effects:
More water in ICF than ECF.
Causes cells to shrink due to water moving out.
Hypotonic Solution Effects:
More water in ECF than ICF.
Causes cells to swell due to water moving in.
Conclusion
Understanding the movement of water in response to solute concentrations in hypertonic and hypotonic solutions is crucial for comprehending cellular fluid dynamics.