Here's why:
* Hypotonic: A hypotonic solution has a lower concentration of solutes (like salts and sugars) compared to the inside of the cell. This creates a difference in water potential, where water naturally flows from areas of high water potential (the hypotonic solution) to areas of low water potential (inside the cell).
* Isotonic: In an isotonic solution, the solute concentration inside and outside the cell is the same. There is no net movement of water.
* Hypertonic: In a hypertonic solution, the solute concentration is higher outside the cell. This causes water to move out of the cell, potentially causing it to shrink or shrivel.
