What term is used to describe the diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane?

What term is used to describe the diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane?

• A. Transpiration
• B. Facilitated Diffusion
• C. Simple Diffusion
• D. Osmosis

Answer: (D)

The term used to describe the diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane is osmosis. Osmosis specifically refers to the movement of water molecules from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration through a membrane that allows only water to pass while restricting solute movement. This process is vital for many biological functions, including maintaining cell turgor pressure, nutrient transport, and waste removal. In cellular contexts, maintaining the right balance of water is crucial for cells to function properly. This mechanism relies on the selective permeability of the membrane, which allows water to flow freely while controlling the passage of solutes, thereby helping cells achieve homeostasis. Understanding osmosis is essential for grasping how cells interact with their environments and manage the fluid balance needed for survival.

The term used to describe the diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane is osmosis. Osmosis specifically refers to the movement of water molecules from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration through a membrane that allows only water to pass while restricting solute movement. This process is vital for many biological functions, including maintaining cell turgor pressure, nutrient transport, and waste removal.

In cellular contexts, maintaining the right balance of water is crucial for cells to function properly. This mechanism relies on the selective permeability of the membrane, which allows water to flow freely while controlling the passage of solutes, thereby helping cells achieve homeostasis. Understanding osmosis is essential for grasping how cells interact with their environments and manage the fluid balance needed for survival.