hypotonic
[ˌhaɪ.poʊˈtɑː.nɪk]
adjective
hipotônico
1. (Biology/Chemistry) Describing a solution that has a lower concentration of solutes than another solution, causing water to move into cells and potentially cause them to swell or burst
When red blood cells are placed in a hypotonic solution, they absorb water and may lyse.
Quando células vermelhas do sangue são colocadas em uma solução hipotônica, elas absorvem água e podem se lisar.
2. (Medicine) Relating to abnormally low muscle tone or tension
The patient exhibited hypotonic muscles, indicating possible neurological dysfunction.
O paciente apresentava músculos hipotônicos, indicando possível disfunção neurológica.
3. (Linguistics/Phonetics) Having relatively low stress or prominence in speech
The hypotonic syllable in the word receives minimal emphasis.
A sílaba hipotônica na palavra recebe ênfase mínima.
The term 'hypotonic' is primarily used in scientific, medical, and educational contexts in both Brazil and the United States. In Brazil, it is commonly encountered in biology and chemistry courses, as well as in clinical practice. The concept is fundamental to understanding cellular biology and osmoregulation, making it essential terminology in healthcare and scientific communities across both countries.
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