What is diffusion and how is it different from osmosis?

Diffusion can otherwise be known as the technical term for the movement of particles. It is the process where the particles in question moves from an area where it is high in concentration to an area where it is low. This movement of high to low is also referred to as diffusing down a concentration gradient. Diffusion happens because of the random movement of particles. When the concentration of the particle is the same on both sides, the net exchange is zero and concentration stabilizes. Osmosis is a specific form of diffusion referring only to the diffusion of water molecules down a concentration gradient through a partially permeable membrane. For example, we refer to water entering plant cells by osmosis instead of diffusion.

AK
Answered by Alvina K. Biology tutor

14388 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe the structure of the DNA of a eukaryotic cell


Describe ways in which a healthy artery differs from an artery affected by coronary heart disease


Explain how the body responds to increases and decrease in blood glucose concentration:


|The diagram shows part of a DNA molecule. DNA is a polymer. What is the evidence from the diagram that DNA is a polymer?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences