Diffusion & Osmosis

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

Diffusion is the process by which molecules spread from areas of high concentration to areas of low concentration until they are evenly distributed.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

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

Front

What does it mean for a substance to reach equilibrium?

Back

Equilibrium is the state in which the concentration of a substance is uniform throughout a space, meaning there is no net movement of molecules.

Front

What is passive transport?

Back

Passive transport is the movement of substances across a cell membrane without the use of energy, including processes like diffusion and osmosis.

Front

What role do cell membranes play in osmosis and diffusion?

Back

Cell membranes regulate what enters and exits the cell, allowing for selective permeability during osmosis and diffusion.

Front

Can all substances cross cell membranes?

Back

No, not all substances can cross cell membranes; only certain molecules, like water and small nonpolar molecules, can pass through.

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 maintaining homeostasis in cells.

Front

What is the difference between diffusion and osmosis?

Back

Diffusion refers to the movement of any molecules from high to low concentration, while osmosis specifically refers to the movement of water across a membrane.

Front

What factors affect the rate of diffusion?

Back

Factors include temperature, concentration gradient, surface area, and the nature of the molecules involved.

Front

What is a concentration gradient?

Back

A concentration gradient is the difference in the concentration of a substance between two areas, driving the movement of molecules during diffusion.