Osmosis is the passive movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration, aiming to equalize solute concentrations on both sides of the membrane. This process is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis, as it regulates the internal environment of cells by controlling water balance. Osmosis occurs without the expenditure of energy, relying instead on the natural kinetic movement of water molecules. The rate of osmosis can be influenced by factors such as temperature, pressure, and the concentration gradient of solutes. Understanding osmosis is essential in various biological processes, including nutrient absorption and waste removal in living organisms
What is osmosis?
Osmosis is the passive movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.
Why is osmosis important for cells?
Osmosis is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis, as it regulates the internal environment of cells by controlling water balance and solute concentrations.
What type of membrane is involved in osmosis?
Osmosis occurs across a selectively permeable membrane, which allows water molecules to pass while restricting the movement of solute molecules.
Does osmosis require energy?
No, osmosis is a passive process that does not require energy; it relies on the natural kinetic movement of water molecules.
What factors can influence the rate of osmosis?
The rate of osmosis can be influenced by factors such as temperature, pressure, and the concentration gradient of solutes across the membrane.
What is the primary movement of water during osmosis?
a) From high solute concentration to low solute concentration
b) From low solute concentration to high solute concentration
c) From high pressure to low pressure
d) From low temperature to high temperature
Answer: b) From low solute concentration to high solute concentration
What type of membrane is essential for osmosis to occur?
a) Permeable membrane
b) Selectively permeable membrane
c) Impermeable membrane
d) Semi-permeable membrane
Answer: b) Selectively permeable membrane
Does osmosis require energy input?
a) Yes, it requires ATP
b) No, it is a passive process
c) Only in certain conditions
d) Yes, but only in plant cells
Answer: b) No, it is a passive process
What happens to a cell placed in a hypertonic solution?
a) It swells
b) It remains unchanged
c) It shrinks
d) It bursts
Answer: c) It shrinks
What is the effect of osmosis on plant cells?
a) It causes them to lose turgor pressure
b) It helps maintain turgor pressure
c) It has no effect
d) It causes them to burst
Answer: