Isotonic, Hypertonic, Hypotonic Solution - Practice Questions & MCQ

Isotonic Solution
Two solutions having same osmotic pressure at a given temperature are called isotonic solutions. When such solutions are separated by semipermeable membrane no osmosis occurs between them. For example, the osmotic pressure associated with the fluid inside the blood cell is equivalent to that of 0.9% (mass/volume) sodium chloride solution, called normal saline solution and it is safe to inject intravenously.

Hypertonic Solution
The solution which have higher osmotic pressure is called hypertonic solution. For example, if we place the cells in a solution containing more than 0.9% (mass/volume) sodium chloride, water will flow out of the cells and they would shrink. Such a solution is called hypertonic. It is a concentrated solution.

Hypotonic Solution
The solution which have lower osmotic pressure is called hypotonic solution. For example, if the salt concentration is less than 0.9% (mass/volume), the solution is said to be hypotonic. In this case, water will flow into the cells if placed in this solution and they would swell. It is a diluted solution.