Which term best describes a solution with equal non-penetrating solute concentrations?

The term that best describes a solution with equal non-penetrating solute concentrations is isotonic. An isotonic solution has the same osmotic pressure as another solution, typically in the context of biological systems, indicating that there is no net movement of water across a semipermeable membrane. This means that the concentrations of solutes that cannot cross the membrane are equal on both sides, leading to a state where cells maintain their shape and function without swelling or shrinking.

Isosmotic refers to solutions that have the same osmotic pressure but does not specifically address the nature of the solutes (penetrating vs. non-penetrating); therefore, it may not fully capture the physiological implications of isotonicity. Hypotonic and hypertonic solutions refer to scenarios where the solute concentration is lower or higher, respectively, than that of another solution, leading to water movement that can cause cells to swell or shrink. Understanding the distinctions between these conditions is crucial in fields like medicine and biology, where maintaining cellular integrity and function is vital.