Here's a breakdown:
* Isotonic: Refers to a solution that has the same solute concentration as another solution.
* Solute: The substance that is dissolved in a solution (e.g., sugar, salt, etc.).
* Cell: The basic unit of life.
In an isotonic environment:
* There is no net movement of water across the cell membrane.
* The cell maintains its normal shape and volume.
* The cell is in equilibrium with its surroundings.
Example:
If a cell is isotonic for sodium chloride (NaCl), the concentration of NaCl inside the cell is the same as the concentration of NaCl in the fluid surrounding the cell.
Important Note: Isotonicity is specific to a particular substance. A cell can be isotonic for one substance but not another.
