Plasmolysis is the process in which plant cells lose water in a hypertonic solution, leading to the contraction of the cell membrane away from the cell wall. This occurs when the concentration of solutes outside the cell is higher than inside, causing water to move out of the cell through osmosis. As a result, the cell becomes flaccid and may eventually die if the condition persists. Plasmolysis is often observed in laboratory settings and can be detrimental to plant health.