Solution hyposmotic

Isosmotic solution Hyperosmotic solution Hyposmotic solution... 

If two solutions contain the same number of particles they may be said to be iso-osmotic, or simply isosmotic, with respect to each other. If one solution exhibits a greater osmolarity than another solution it is hyperosmotic with respect to the less concentrated solution. If one solution has a lower osmolarity than another solution then it is hypo-osmotic or hyposmotic, with respect to the more concentrated solution. Iso-, hyper- and hypo-osmolarity should always be stated with respect to another solution. 

Doctors and others healthcare workers often administer solutions to patients. The osmotic pressure of these solutions is controlled for the desired effect on the patient. Solutions having osmotic pressures greater than those of body fluids are called hyperosmotic. These solutions take water out of cells and tissues. When a human cell is placed in a hyperosmotic solution, it tends to shrivel as it loses water to the surrounding solution (Figure 12.18b ). Solutions having osmotic pressures less than those of body fluids are called hyposmotic. These solutions pump water into cells. When a human cell is placed in a hyposmotic solution—such as pure water, for example—water enters the cell, sometimes causing it to burst (Figure 12.18c). 

FIGURE 12.18 Red Blood Cells and Osmosis (a) In an isosmotic solution, red blood cells have the normal shape shown here. In a hyperosmotic solution (b), they lose water and shrivel. In a hyposmotic solution (c), they swell up and may burst as water flows into the cell. 

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