Diffusion & Osmosis Flashcard

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

Diffusion is the process by which molecules spread 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 selectively permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.

Front

What is passive transport?

Back

Passive transport is the movement of substances across a cell membrane without the use of energy by the cell.

Front

What does selectively permeable mean?

Back

Selectively permeable refers to a property of cell membranes that allows certain molecules to pass through while blocking others.

Front

What happens to cells in a hypertonic solution?

Back

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

Front

What happens to cells in a hypotonic solution?

Back

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

Front

What is an example of diffusion in everyday life?

Back

An example of diffusion is the smell of food traveling from the kitchen to the dining room.

Front

What is the end result of diffusion?

Back

The end result of diffusion is the equal distribution of molecules throughout a space.

Front

What is the role of the cell membrane in osmosis?

Back

The cell membrane regulates the movement of water in and out of the cell during osmosis.

Front

What is equilibrium in the context of diffusion?

Back

Equilibrium is the state reached when the concentration of molecules is equal throughout a space.