Diffusion & Osmosis

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

Diffusion is the movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration until equilibrium is reached.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypertonic solution?

Back

In a hypertonic solution, water moves out of the cell, causing the cell to shrink.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypotonic solution?

Back

In a hypotonic solution, water moves into the cell, causing the cell to swell and potentially burst.

Front

What is equilibrium in the context of cells?

Back

Equilibrium is the state where the concentration of solutes is equal inside and outside the cell, resulting in no net movement of water.

Front

What role does the cell membrane play in osmosis?

Back

The cell membrane is selectively permeable, allowing only certain substances, like water, to pass through while blocking others.

Front

Why should a person avoid drinking salty water?

Back

Drinking salty water can cause cells to shrink due to the movement of water out of the cells to balance the salt concentration.

Front

What is a selectively permeable membrane?

Back

A selectively permeable membrane is a barrier that allows certain substances to pass while blocking others, crucial for osmosis and diffusion.

Front

How does temperature affect diffusion?

Back

Higher temperatures increase the energy of particles, leading to faster diffusion rates.

Front

What is the difference between diffusion and osmosis?

Back

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