* Hypotonic Solutions: These solutions have a lower concentration of solutes (like salts and sugars) compared to the inside of the cell.
* Water Movement: Water naturally moves from areas of high concentration to areas of low concentration. In a hypotonic solution, there's more water outside the cell than inside, so water rushes into the cell to try and equalize the concentration.
* Cell Swelling and Lysis: As water enters the cell, it swells. If the influx of water is significant, the cell membrane can't withstand the pressure, and the cell will lyse (burst).
Example: Imagine a red blood cell placed in pure water. Water will move into the cell to dilute the high concentration of solutes within the cell. This will cause the cell to swell and eventually burst.
Important Note: The opposite scenario, where a cell is placed in a hypertonic solution (higher solute concentration outside the cell), would cause water to leave the cell, leading to dehydration and shrinking.
