Answer
Hypotonic - a solution with a lower concentration of nonpermeating solutes than ICF.
Isotonic - a solution with the same concentration of nonpermeating solutes as ICF.
Hypertonic - a solution with a higher concentration of nonpermeating solutes than ICF.
These concepts are important in clinical practice because it is essential for cells to be in a state of osmotic equilibrium. If cells are placed in a hypotonic or hypertonic solution, then the osmotic equilibrium is disturbed and the cells die. That means patients are usually given isotonic IV fluids (normal saline). Under certain conditions, however, a hypotonic or hypertonic solution is needed instead.
Work Step by Step
Hypotonic can be broken down into hypo- "low" and ton "tension". Cells placed in a hypotonic solution swell up and lyse.
Isotonic can be broken down into iso- "equal" and ton "tension". Cells placed in isotonic solutions retain their normal size and shape.
Hypertonic can be broken down into hyper- "high" and ton "tension". Cells placed in hypertonic solutions shrivel up and die.
These concepts are important because we want to keep patients and cells alive.
