In the context of solutions separated by a selectively permeable membrane that is only permeable to water, the terms hypotonic, isotonic, and hypertonic describe the relative concentrations of solutes in solution A compared to solution B.
-
Hypotonic: If solution A has a lower concentration of solutes compared to solution B, it would be described as hypotonic. This would cause water to move into A from B, potentially causing solution A to swell.
-
Isotonic: If solution A has the same concentration of solutes as solution B, it would be described as isotonic, meaning there would be no net movement of water across the membrane.
-
Hypertonic: If solution A has a higher concentration of solutes compared to solution B, it would be described as hypertonic. This would cause water to move out of A to B, potentially causing solution A to shrink.
Since we don’t have specific information about the concentrations of solutes in solution A, we cannot definitively classify it without additional context. Please choose the answer based on the relative concentrations of solutes in the two solutions as per your diagram or additional information.
If solution A has lower solute concentration compared to B, then the answer is hypotonic. If they are equal, then isotonic. If higher, then hypertonic.
No standard term "epitonic" applies in this context regarding solution concentrations.
So please select your answer based on the conditions depicted in your diagram.