ISOTONICITY Meaning and
Definition
-
Isotonicity is a term used in physiology and medicine to describe the state of equal tension or osmotic pressure between two solutions separated by a semi-permeable membrane. It refers to a condition in which the concentration of solutes, such as salts and other dissolved substances, is the same both inside and outside of a cell or fluid compartment. In an isotonic solution, there is no net movement of water across the cell membrane, resulting in a stable equilibrium.
Isotonicity is crucial for maintaining the normal functioning of cells, tissues, and biological fluids. The human body relies on isotonic conditions for various bodily processes, including the proper functioning of cells, organ systems, and maintaining fluid balance. For example, in medical settings, isotonic intravenous fluids are used to provide hydration and restore electrolyte balance in patients who are unable to eat or drink.
The concept of isotonicity is closely related to osmosis, which describes the movement of water across a semi-permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration. In an isotonic solution, the osmotic pressure on both sides of the membrane is equal, resulting in no net movement of water. This ensures that cells neither swell nor shrink, maintaining their normal size and shape.
In summary, isotonicity refers to a condition in which two solutions have comparable osmotic pressure or solute concentration, resulting in no net movement of water across a semi-permeable membrane. It is a vital aspect of cellular and fluid homeostasis in organisms.
-
The quality of possessing and maintaining a uniform tone or tension.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ISOTONICITY
- usotonicity
- jsotonicity
- ksotonicity
- osotonicity
- 9sotonicity
- 8sotonicity
- iaotonicity
- izotonicity
- ixotonicity
- idotonicity
- ieotonicity
- iwotonicity
- isitonicity
- isktonicity
- isltonicity
- isptonicity
- is0tonicity
- is9tonicity
- isoronicity
- isofonicity
Etymology of ISOTONICITY
The word "isotonicity" originates from the combination of two components: "iso-" and "tonicity".
1. "Iso-" is a prefix derived from the Greek word "ísos", meaning "equal" or "same". It is commonly used in scientific and medical terms to indicate equality or sameness.
2. "Tonicity" is derived from the Greek word "tonos", meaning "tension" or "stretch". It refers to the ability of a solution to induce cellular osmotic pressure or influence the shape and volume of cells through the process of osmosis.
By combining "iso-" and "tonicity", the word "isotonicity" refers to the state of being isotonic, or having equal osmotic pressure or concentration as a reference solution.
Similar spelling word for ISOTONICITY
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
