What is the difference between osmosis and diffusion?

Both osmosis and diffusion are processes that involve the movement of molecules from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. Neither process requires energy.
Osmosis and diffusion differ in the folowing ways:
- Osmosis requires a partially permeable membrane and is the movement of water molecules only.
- Diffusion does not require a partially permeable membrane and is the movement of any gas or liquid molecules.

HM
Answered by Hope M. Biology tutor

3697 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe mechanisms used by the body to prevent entry of pathogens


Describe how synapses work in the context of the nervous system.


What is the action of insulin?


what is the difference between diffusion and active transport?


We're here to help

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

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning