What is the primary outcome of a cell in an isotonic solution?

In an isotonic solution, the concentration of solutes inside the cell is equal to the concentration of solutes outside the cell. Because of this balance, there is no net movement of water into or out of the cell. Water molecules move in and out at equal rates, maintaining the cell’s size and shape without causing it to swell or shrink. This equilibrium is crucial for cellular function, as extreme changes in water content can disrupt metabolic processes.

Other options discuss scenarios that occur in hypotonic or hypertonic solutions, which involve the movement of water leading to changes in the cell's state, but in an isotonic environment, such changes do not occur. This highlights the significance of isotonic conditions for maintaining cell integrity and homeostasis.