A hypotonic solution is a solution with a lower solute concentration compared to another solution. When a cell is placed in a hypotonic solution, water will move into the cell across the cell membrane by osmosis. This influx of water can cause the cell to swell and potentially burst if the cell wall is weak or nonexistent.
For example, if you place a red blood cell (which has a higher solute concentration compared to a hypotonic solution) in a hypotonic solution, water will move into the cell, causing it to swell and potentially burst due to the pressure buildup inside the cell.
In summary, a hypotonic solution has a lower solute concentration, causing water to move into cells, potentially leading to cell swelling or lysis.
