Osmosis and Diffusion

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

Diffusion is the process by which molecules move from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration until equilibrium is reached.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the diffusion of water molecules through a semi-permeable membrane from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.

Front

What happens to molecules at equilibrium?

Back

At equilibrium, there is no net movement of molecules; they continue to move, but the concentrations remain balanced.

Front

How does temperature affect the rate of diffusion?

Back

Higher temperatures increase the kinetic energy of molecules, leading to a faster rate of diffusion.

Front

What is a semi-permeable membrane?

Back

A semi-permeable membrane is a barrier that allows certain molecules to pass through while blocking others.

Front

What is the role of concentration gradients in diffusion?

Back

Concentration gradients drive diffusion, as molecules move from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration.

Front

What will happen to a cell placed in a hypertonic solution?

Back

The cell will lose water and shrink due to osmosis.

Front

What will happen to a cell placed in a hypotonic solution?

Back

The cell will gain water and swell due to osmosis.

Front

What is facilitated diffusion?

Back

Facilitated diffusion is the process by which molecules pass through a cell membrane via special proteins, without the use of energy.

Front

What is the difference between active transport and passive transport?

Back

Active transport requires energy to move molecules against their concentration gradient, while passive transport does not require energy and moves molecules along their gradient.