Dictionary > Hyposmotic

Hyposmotic

Definition
adjective
1. Of, relating to, or characterized by having a lower osmotic pressure than a surrounding fluid under comparison.
2. A condition in which the total amount of solutes (both permeable and impermeable) in a solution is lower than that of another solution.
Supplement
For instance: In kidneys, the tubular fluid is:
iso-osmotic (to plasma) when it is at the beginning of the loop of henle
hyperosmotic (to plasma) when it is at the tip of the loop
hyposmotic (to plasma) when it leaves the loop
Word origin: G. hypo: under, below + osmotic: relating to osmosis.

Related forms: hyposmotically (adverb).

Related phrases: hyposmotic solution.
Alternative forms: hypoosmotic.

Compare: hyperosmotic, iso-osmotic.

See also: tonicity, osmosis, osmotic pressure, diffusion, plasma membrane.


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