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Explain the process of diffusion and the factors that drive it.
Explain the process of diffusion and the factors that drive it.
Diffusion is the movement of molecules from a region of higher concentration to one of lower concentration. This movement occurs because the molecules are constantly colliding with one another. The net movement of the molecules is away from the region of high concentration to the region of low concentration. The driving force for diffusion is the concentration gradient, which is the difference in concentration of a substance between two areas.
Describe osmosis and the role of a semipermeable membrane in this process.
Describe osmosis and the role of a semipermeable membrane in this process.
Osmosis is the movement of water from a region of higher concentration to one of lower concentration. Osmosis occurs across a membrane that is semipermeable. A semipermeable membrane lets only certain molecules pass through while keeping other molecules out, allowing the movement of water across the membrane.
Differentiate between diffusion and osmosis, highlighting their similarities and differences.
Differentiate between diffusion and osmosis, highlighting their similarities and differences.
Both diffusion and osmosis involve the movement of molecules from a region of higher concentration to one of lower concentration. Diffusion involves the movement of any type of molecule, while osmosis specifically refers to the movement of water molecules. Additionally, osmosis occurs across a semipermeable membrane, whereas diffusion can occur through any permeable membrane or even in open space.
Explain the concept of facilitated diffusion and provide an example of a molecule that undergoes this type of movement across the plasma membrane.
Explain the concept of facilitated diffusion and provide an example of a molecule that undergoes this type of movement across the plasma membrane.
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Illustrate the process of diffusion using a real-life example outside of a biological context.
Illustrate the process of diffusion using a real-life example outside of a biological context.
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