Tonicity

Definition

Tonicity is the ability of a solution to cause a cell to gain or lose water. It depends on the concentration of solutes that cannot cross the cell membrane.

Related terms

Hypotonic Solution:

A solution with lower solute concentration (more water) compared to another solution.

Isotonic Solution:

A solution whose solute concentration is equal to the solute concentration inside a cell.

Hypertonic Solution:

A solution with higher solute concentration (less water) compared to another solution.