Osmosis & Diffusion Flashcard 1

Front

What is the process called when molecules move from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration?

Back

Diffusion

Front

What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

Back

To regulate what enters and leaves a cell.

Front

In the context of osmosis, what does the term 'high concentration of water' refer to?

Back

An area where there are fewer solute particles, meaning more water molecules are present.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

The movement of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.

Front

What is the end result of diffusion?

Back

Equilibrium, where the concentration of molecules is equal throughout the space.

Front

What is a selectively permeable membrane?

Back

A membrane that allows certain molecules to pass through while blocking others.

Front

How does temperature affect the rate of diffusion?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between diffusion and osmosis?

Back

Diffusion refers to the movement of solute particles, while osmosis specifically refers to the movement of water.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypertonic solution?

Back

The cell will lose water and may shrink due to the higher concentration of solutes outside the cell.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypotonic solution?

Back

The cell will gain water and may swell or burst due to the lower concentration of solutes outside the cell.