What happens to a cell placed in a hypotonic solution?

When a cell is placed in a hypotonic solution, the concentration of solutes outside the cell is lower than the concentration inside the cell. This difference in concentration creates an osmotic pressure that favors the movement of water. As water flows into the cell to balance the solute concentrations, the cell begins to swell. If too much water enters, this influx can lead to the cell expanding beyond its capacity, ultimately resulting in the cell bursting, or lyse.

This phenomenon is particularly relevant for cells that lack a rigid cell wall, such as animal cells. In contrast, plant cells have a cell wall that provides structural support, allowing them to maintain their shape even as they swell. However, in the case of animal cells, the absence of such a wall makes them susceptible to damage from excessive water uptake in a hypotonic environment.