is a specific type of diffusion; it is the passage of water from a region of higher water concentration through a semi-permeable membrane to a region of water concentration. Water moves in or out of a until its concentration is the same on both sides of the cell membrane. A cell in a pure water solution (hypotonic solution) would be expected to in volume due to the net flow of .
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cellincreaselowerdecreasewaterfacilitated diffusionhighersolutesendocytosispassive transportsolutessaltactive transportosmosis
osmosis, solutes, cell, decrease, water.
Osmosis is a specific type of diffusion; it is the passage of water from a region of higher water concentration through a semi-permeable membrane to a region of lower water concentration. Water moves in or out of a cell until its concentration is the same on both sides of the cell membrane. A cell in a pure water solution (hypotonic solution) would be expected to increase in volume due to the net flow of water.
The specific type of diffusion described here is called osmosis. Osmosis is the movement of water molecules from an area of higher water concentration to an area of lower water concentration through a semi-permeable membrane. The semi-permeable membrane allows the passage of water molecules while restricting the movement of solute molecules.
To understand osmosis, let's break down the process step by step:
1. Identify the concentration gradient: Osmosis occurs when there is a difference in water concentration on either side of a semi-permeable membrane. Water will naturally move from an area of higher concentration (lower solute concentration) to an area of lower concentration (higher solute concentration) to balance the concentrations.
2. Determine the role of the semi-permeable membrane: The semi-permeable membrane allows water molecules to pass through while blocking the movement of solute molecules. It acts as a barrier that determines the direction of water flow based on the water concentration on both sides.
3. Understand the effect on cell volume: If a cell is placed in a hypotonic solution, meaning the surrounding solution has a higher water concentration compared to the cell's cytoplasm, water will flow into the cell by osmosis. This net inflow of water will cause the cell to increase in volume.
In summary, osmosis is the process of water molecules moving from an area of higher water concentration to an area of lower water concentration through a semi-permeable membrane. It is essential for maintaining cellular balance and plays a crucial role in various biological processes.