Explain the difference between osmosis and diffusion in cells.

Question: Explain the difference between osmosis and diffusion in cells.

Osmosis and diffusion are both passive transport processes that help move substances in and out of cells, but they have some key differences:

Osmosis

- Definition: Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a semipermeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

- Medium: It occurs only in liquid mediums.

- Membrane: Requires a semipermeable membrane.

- Direction: Water moves to balance solute concentrations on both sides of the membrane.

- Example: Absorption of water by plant roots.

Diffusion

- Definition: Diffusion is the movement of molecules (solute or solvent) from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration until equilibrium is reached.

- Medium: Can occur in gases, liquids, and solids.

- Membrane: Does not require a semipermeable membrane.

- Direction: Molecules move in all directions to evenly distribute themselves.

- Example: The spread of perfume scent in a room.

Key Differences

- Substances Involved: Osmosis involves only water molecules, while diffusion can involve any type of molecules.

- Membrane Requirement: Osmosis requires a semipermeable membrane, whereas diffusion does not.

- Medium: Osmosis is limited to liquid mediums, but diffusion can occur in gases, liquids, and solids.

Both processes are crucial for maintaining cellular functions and homeostasis. 

Rjwala

Rjwala is your freely Ai Social Learning Platform. here our team solve your academic problems daily.