Questions and Answers
What is the process called when molecules move from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration?
What happens to your fingers after sitting in the bathtub for hours?
What causes swollen throat cells to shrink when gargling with salt water?
Osmosis
What is the term for the movement of water into and out of cells?
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The cell membrane is made of a ___________ ___________.
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The cell membrane is _____________ permeable. This means that _____________.
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Diffusion always causes particles to move from a region of ___________ concentration to a region of ___________ concentration.
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Does a cell use energy when molecules diffuse in or out of the cell down the concentration gradient?
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What process requires energy (ATP) to transport molecules against a concentration gradient?
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Which process requires a helper to get things across the membrane?
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What occurs when you add salt to slugs in your garden?
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Why will a saltwater fish not survive in a freshwater aquarium?
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In a solution with 5% salt inside the cell and 10% salt outside the cell, water will move __________ the cell.
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In a solution with 3% glucose inside the cell and 1% glucose outside, water will move __________ the cell.
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A selectively permeable membrane __________ some substances through.
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What is the amount of a substance in a certain place called?
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Study Notes
Diffusion
- Movement of particles from areas of high concentration to low concentration.
- Examples include scent diffusion (like perfume or cooking smells) and oxygen uptake in lungs.
- Does not require energy; operates down the concentration gradient.
- Essential for gas exchange and nutrient absorption in cells.
Osmosis
- A specific type of diffusion focused on water movement across a semipermeable membrane.
- Water moves from areas of low solute concentration to high solute concentration.
- Can lead to cell shrinkage or swelling based on surrounding water concentration.
- Common examples include fingers pruned after prolonged water exposure and the effect of salt on slugs.
Cell Membrane Structure
- Composed of a phospholipid bilayer that serves as a barrier to regulate substance passage.
- Described as semipermeable, allowing only certain substances to pass through.
Concentration and Movement
- Concentration specifies the amount of a substance within a defined space.
- Diffusion leads to equal distribution of molecules (e.g., sugar moving based on concentration differences).
Active Transport
- Requires energy (ATP) to move particles against their concentration gradient, unlike diffusion and osmosis.
- Facilitated diffusion utilizes helpers for transportation but still does not require energy.
Biological Implications
- Living cells maintain balance via osmosis and diffusion to ensure optimal function.
- Saltwater fish placed in freshwater will swell due to osmotic pressure, threatening survival.
- Environmental conditions significantly affect cell health, particularly in regard to water and solute concentrations.
Comparison of Solutions
- Understanding intracellular vs. extracellular fluid concentrations is crucial for predicting water movement:
- Higher solute concentration outside leads to water entering cells.
- Equal solute concentrations maintain homeostasis.
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Test your knowledge of diffusion and osmosis with these engaging flashcards. Each card presents a scenario to help illustrate the concepts of these two fundamental biological processes. Perfect for students looking to reinforce their understanding in a fun way!
