An isotonic solution has the same solute concentration as another solution, resulting in no net movement of water particles and a constant overall concentration on both sides of the cell membrane. For example, a cell with $${}20\%$$ solute and $${}80\%$$ water in a beaker with $${}20\%$$ solute and $${}80\%$$ water will experience equal rates of water moving into and out of the cell.

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The external environment of a cell can be classified as an isotonic, hypertonic, or hypotonic medium. These environments determine the direction of water movement across the cell membrane via osmosis.

External Cellular Environments Affecting Osmosis

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Microbiology covers the scope and sequence requirements for a single-semester microbiology course for non-majors. The book presents the core concepts of microbiology with a focus on applications for careers in allied health. The pedagogical features of the text make the material interesting and accessible while maintaining the career-application focus and scientific rigor inherent in the subject matter. Microbiology’s art program enhances students’ understanding of concepts through clear and effective illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

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Isotonic Medium

A hypertonic solution has a higher solute concentration than another solution, such as the inside of a cell, causing water particles to diffuse out of the cell into the external environment. For instance, if a cell with $${}20\%$$ solute and $${}80\%$$ water is placed in a beaker containing $${}40\%$$ solute and $${}60\%$$ water, water will exit the cell, which can lead to crenation in cells lacking a cell wall.

Hypertonic Medium

A hypotonic solution has a lower solute concentration than another solution, such as the interior of a cell, causing water particles to move into the cell via osmosis. For example, if a cell with $${}20\%$$ solute and $${}80\%$$ water is placed in a beaker containing $${}10\%$$ solute and $${}90\%$$ water, water will enter the cell, causing it to swell and potentially lyse, or burst.

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