Hypotonic solution: A solution that contains fewer dissolved particles (such as salt and other electrolytes) than is found in normal cells and blood. Hypotonic solutions are commonly used to give fluids intravenously to hospitalized patients in order to treat or avoid dehydration.

What is an example of a hypotonic solution?

Some examples of hypotonic solutions include anything that has more water and less solute compared to the cells: Distilled water. 0.45% saline. 0.25% saline.

What is hypertonic and hypotonic solution?

A solution will be hypertonic to a cell if its solute concentration is higher than that inside the cell, and the solutes cannot cross the membrane. ... If the solute concentration outside the cell is lower than inside the cell, and the solutes cannot cross the membrane, then that solution is hypotonic to the cell.