Which type of solution is used to draw water into the cells?

A hypotonic solution is used to draw water into the cells because it has a lower concentration of solutes compared to the inside of the cell. When a cell is placed in a hypotonic solution, water moves from the area of lower solute concentration (the solution) to the area of higher solute concentration (inside the cell) through osmosis. This influx of water causes the cell to swell and can eventually lead to cell lysis if too much water enters.

In contrast, a hypertonic solution contains a higher concentration of solutes, which would cause water to exit the cells, leading to cell shrinkage. An isotonic solution has an equal concentration of solutes inside and outside the cell, so there is no net movement of water, maintaining the cell's normal state. A colloid solution consists of larger particles suspended in fluid and does not primarily affect the osmotic movement of water into the cell in the same way that hypotonic solutions do. This understanding is crucial for IV therapy, as the choice of solution directly influences cell hydration and function.