I don't understand why as the steepness of a concentration gradient increases, the rate of diffusion increases as well. I would think it would decrease. I looked it up in google and read some articles but I still don't understand. can someone explain this to me?

It works just like Le Chatelier's Principle. The higher the concentration, the more must leave to try to return the original sample to equilibrium.

Certainly! Let's break down the concept to help you understand why an increase in the steepness of a concentration gradient leads to an increase in the rate of diffusion.

First, let's clarify what a concentration gradient is. It refers to the difference in the concentration of a substance between two points. In the context of diffusion, it specifically represents the difference in the concentration of particles on either side of a barrier, such as a cell membrane.

Now, when the concentration gradient is steeper, it means that there is a larger difference in the concentration of particles between the two points. This steeper gradient creates a greater "push" or driving force for the particles to move from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.

To understand why diffusion rate increases with a steeper concentration gradient, we need to consider Fick's first law of diffusion. It states that the rate of diffusion is directly proportional to the concentration gradient. Mathematically, this law can be expressed as:

Rate of diffusion ∝ Concentration gradient

This equation indicates that as the concentration gradient increases, the rate of diffusion also increases.

To grasp the concept intuitively, imagine two scenarios: one with a gentle concentration gradient and another with a steep concentration gradient.

In the scenario with a gentle gradient, there is a small difference in concentration between the two points. Therefore, the driving force for particles to move is relatively weak. Consequently, the rate of diffusion will be slower.

On the other hand, in the scenario with a steep gradient, there is a large difference in concentration between the two points. As a result, the driving force for particles to move is relatively strong. This stronger force propels particles to move more rapidly, leading to a higher rate of diffusion.

In summary, a steeper concentration gradient exerts a greater force, pushing particles to move from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration more rapidly. As a result, the rate of diffusion increases with an increase in the steepness of the concentration gradient.