Osmosis and Diffusion Flashcards

Osmosis

• Osmosis involves water movement through a semi-permeable membrane.
• Water travels from areas of higher concentration to lower concentration.

Semi-permeable Membrane

• A barrier that permits certain molecules to pass while blocking others.
• Essential component of cell membranes, regulating substance movement.

Diffusion

• The process where molecules move from higher concentration areas to lower ones.
• Applies to various types of molecules including gases and solids.

Differences Between Osmosis and Diffusion

• Osmosis specifically refers to water movement, while diffusion encompasses all types of molecules.
• Example: The scent of gas released by a dog can be perceived due to diffusion.

Passive Transport

• Molecules pass through cell membranes without energy use.
• Relies on natural movement along concentration gradients.

Active Transport

• Movement of molecules across membranes that requires energy.
• Often called facilitated diffusion, it contradicts passive transport.

Concentration Gradient

• Represents the variance in substance concentration across different locations.
• Drives both osmosis and diffusion processes.

Solute

• A dissolved substance within a solution.
• Essential for understanding concentrations in both hypertonic and hypotonic solutions.

Hypertonic Solution

• Characterized by a higher concentration of solutes compared to another solution.
• Can lead to water movement out of cells, causing them to shrink.

Solution

• Formed when a substance dissolves into another, creating a uniform mixture.
• Common in chemical and biological contexts.

Isotonic Solution

• Equilibrium of solute concentration between two solutions.
• No net movement of water occurs between isotonic solutions.

Hypotonic Solution

• Has a lower concentration of solutes relative to another solution.
• Can cause cells to swell as water moves inward from a higher concentration area.