A plant cell in a hypotonic solution takes in water by osmosis, so it swells and becomes turgid. It usually does not burst because the rigid cell wall resists the pressure.

What is happening

In a hypotonic solution, the fluid outside the cell has a lower solute concentration than the inside of the plant cell, so water moves into the cell.

Why it does not burst

The cell wall provides support and creates turgor pressure, which limits further expansion and keeps the cell intact.

Simple example

Think of it like a water balloon inside a sturdy box: the balloon gets fuller, but the box keeps it from popping.

Quick note

In animal cells, the same situation can cause the cell to burst, but plant cells are protected by their cell wall.