Biology: Diffusion and Osmosis Terminology

Study Notes

Diffusion Concepts

Diffusion: Movement of particles from areas of high density to low density, driving the distribution of substances.
Osmosis: A specific type of diffusion focused on water movement across a selectively permeable membrane, affecting cell volume.
Simple Diffusion: Characterized by no energy input or carrier proteins, allowing small nonpolar molecules to pass through membranes easily.

Transport Mechanisms

Facilitated Diffusion: Involves specific proteins that create channels in the cell membrane for certain molecules, enabling their movement without energy.
Active Transport: Contrasts passive processes by utilizing ATP to move substances against their concentration gradient, crucial for nutrient uptake.

Concentration and Solutions

Concentration Gradient: The difference in concentration of a substance between two locations, influencing movement direction during diffusion.
Hypertonic Solutions: Have a higher solute concentration compared to another solution, leading to water movement out of cells.
Hypotonic Solutions: Feature a lower solute concentration, potentially causing cells to swell as water flows in.
Isotonic Solutions: Maintain equal solute concentration compared to another solution, resulting in no net movement of water.

Membrane Structure

Protein Pore: Specialized channels that permit larger molecules to traverse the cell membrane, essential for cellular function.
Hydrophilic Head: Refers to the water-attracting aspect of phospholipids in the cell membrane, facilitating interactions with the aqueous environment.
Hydrophobic Tail: Describes the water-repelling portion of phospholipids, forming a barrier important for membrane integrity.

Energy and Membrane Function

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate): The energy currency required for active transport processes, enabling cells to maintain homeostasis.
Cell Membrane: A selectively permeable barrier regulating which molecules enter or exit a cell, crucial for maintaining cellular function and environment.

Description

Test your knowledge of key terms related to diffusion and osmosis in biology. This quiz covers essential definitions, including simple diffusion and facilitated diffusion. Perfect for students looking to reinforce their understanding of these concepts.