what is the difference between osmosis and diffusion
What is the difference between osmosis and diffusion
Answer:
1. Definition:
- Diffusion is the movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration until equilibrium is reached.
- Osmosis, on the other hand, is the movement of solvent molecules (usually water) from a region of low solute concentration to a region of high solute concentration through a semi-permeable membrane.
2. Nature of Movement:
- In diffusion, both solute and solvent molecules move.
- In osmosis, only solvent molecules (usually water) move across the membrane.
3. Requirement of a Membrane:
- Diffusion can occur with or without a membrane.
- Osmosis requires a semi-permeable membrane to allow only the solvent molecules to pass through.
4. Types of Molecules Involved:
- Diffusion can involve both solute and solvent particles.
- Osmosis specifically involves the movement of solvent molecules (usually water).
5. Equilibrium:
- Diffusion continues until equilibrium is reached for both solute and solvent.
- Osmosis continues until equilibrium is reached for the concentration of solute particles on both sides of the membrane.
In conclusion, while both diffusion and osmosis involve the movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration, the key difference lies in the nature of the substances involved and the requirement of a semi-permeable membrane in osmosis.