Hypotonic意思

"Hypotonic" is a term used in chemistry and biology to describe a solution that has a lower osmotic pressure than another solution. In the context of living organisms, it typically refers to a solution that has a lower concentration of solutes (dissolved particles) compared to the cytoplasm of a cell or another solution being compared.

When a hypotonic solution is placed in contact with a cell or a more concentrated solution, water moves into the hypotonic solution by osmosis, resulting in a net flow of water into the less concentrated solution. This can cause cells in a hypotonic solution to swell or burst, a process known as hemolysis if it happens to red blood cells.

In medical and biological contexts, hypotonic solutions are often used for rehydration, especially in cases of dehydration caused by vomiting or diarrhea, where the body has lost a significant amount of water and electrolytes. Hypotonic solutions can help restore the proper balance of fluids and minerals in the body.