Which solution is defined as having a higher solute concentration than another?

The term that describes a solution with a higher solute concentration compared to another solution is hypertonic. In the context of fluid movement across cell membranes, when a cell is placed in a hypertonic solution, water will move out of the cell in an attempt to balance the solute concentration on both sides of the membrane. This can lead to cell shrinkage.

Understanding the differences in osmotic terms is crucial, particularly in fields like funeral service education where the preservation and treatment of bodies may involve careful management of fluids and chemical solutions. For instance, using hypertonic solutions in embalming can assist in drawing out excess moisture from tissues, which is important for preserving the body.

Isotonic solutions have equal solute concentrations, causing no net movement of water into or out of the cell. Hypotonic solutions contain a lower solute concentration, leading to water moving into the cell, which may cause it to swell. Concentrated is a more general term that describes any solution with a relatively high amount of solute but doesn't specify compared to another solution. Therefore, hypertonic is the precise term used to indicate a specific relationship in terms of solute concentration.