What type of solution has a higher concentration of solute compared to another solution?

A hypertonic solution is defined as a solution that has a higher concentration of solute relative to another solution, typically compared to a cell's internal environment or another solution surrounding it. In biological contexts, understanding hypertonic solutions is crucial because when cells are placed in a hypertonic solution, water will move out of the cells into the surrounding solution in order to achieve equilibrium. This movement of water can lead to cell shrinkage, also known as crenation.

The importance of recognizing what constitutes a hypertonic solution lies in various applications, such as medical treatments involving intravenous solutions, where the osmotic balance can impact cellular health. It's vital for individuals studying chemistry or related fields to grasp these concepts, especially for scenarios involving osmosis and solutions' effects on living organisms.

In contrast, isotonic solutions have equal solute concentrations, while hypotonic solutions have lower solute concentrations compared to the reference solution. A concentrated solution, while indicating a high amount of solute, is not necessarily in comparison to another solution; thus, it doesn't specifically address the relationship between two solutions. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the nature and behavior of different solutions in various contexts.