* Isotonic: An isotonic solution has the same concentration of solutes as the inside of the cell. This means there is no net movement of water in or out of the cell.
* Equilibrium: The cell is in a state of equilibrium, where the water potential inside the cell is equal to the water potential outside the cell.
* No Osmosis: Since the solute concentrations are equal, there's no osmotic pressure driving water across the cell membrane.
In short, the animal cell will maintain its normal shape and size in an isotonic solution.
Key points to remember:
* Hypotonic solution: In a hypotonic solution, the solute concentration is lower outside the cell. This leads to water moving into the cell, causing it to swell and potentially burst (lysis).
* Hypertonic solution: In a hypertonic solution, the solute concentration is higher outside the cell. This causes water to move out of the cell, leading to shrinkage and crenation (wrinkling).
