HYPERTONIC Meaning and
Definition
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Hypertonic is an adjective used to describe a solution or environment with a higher concentration of solutes, such as salts or minerals, compared to another solution or environment. In hypertonic conditions, the solute concentration outside of a cell or another cell compartment is greater than the solute concentration inside. This causes water molecules to move out of the cell or compartment in an attempt to balance the solute concentration. As a result, cells or compartments in a hypertonic environment may shrink or become dehydrated.
In biology, hypertonicity is particularly vital in understanding how cells function and maintain their internal balance. Cells have semi-permeable membranes that regulate the movement of molecules, including water. When a cell is placed in a hypertonic solution, water leaves the cell through osmosis, resulting in water loss and shrinkage of the cell. This process is known as crenation in animal cells and plasmolysis in plant cells.
In medical contexts, hypertonic solutions have practical applications. They can be utilized in intravenous fluids to draw excess fluid from body tissues or to increase blood pressure. Additionally, hypertonic saline solutions may be employed to treat hyponatremia, which is a condition characterized by low blood sodium levels.
Overall, the term "hypertonic" refers to a solution or environment that possesses a higher solute concentration compared to another solution or environment, often resulting in the movement of water out of cells or compartments.
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Having a greater degree of tension, noting that one of two solutions which possess the greater osmotic pressure.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HYPERTONIC
Etymology of HYPERTONIC
The word "hypertonic" is derived from two Greek roots: "hyper" which means "above, over, or excessive" and "tonos" which means "tension, tone, or stretching". When combined, they form "hypertonia", which means excessive tension or tightness of muscles. From "hypertonia", the adjective "hypertonic" is formed, describing a solution or environment with a higher concentration of solute compared to another solution or the surrounding environment.
Similar spelling words for HYPERTONIC
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