A hypertonic solution is a type of solution that has a higher concentration of solutes compared to another solution, typically a cell's internal environment. When a cell is placed in a hypertonic solution, water moves out of the cell to balance the solute concentrations. This process can cause the cell to shrink or become dehydrated. Hypertonic solutions are often used in medical settings, such as in IV fluids or wound care, to draw excess fluid out of tissues. They can also be found in certain food preservation methods, where high salt or sugar concentrations help inhibit microbial growth by creating a hypertonic environment.