Membrane Transport & Tonicity

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

Diffusion is the process by which molecules move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration without the use of energy.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the diffusion of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Front

Why is diffusion important for cells?

Back

Diffusion allows cells to take in materials and expel waste without using energy, facilitating essential cellular processes.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypertonic solution?

Back

In a hypertonic solution, water moves out of the cell, causing the cell to shrink.

Front

What is an isotonic solution?

Back

An isotonic solution is one where the concentration of solutes is equal inside and outside the cell, resulting in no net movement of water.

Front

What is active transport?

Back

Active transport is the movement of molecules across a cell membrane from a region of lower concentration to a region of higher concentration, requiring energy.

Front

What is the effect of a hypotonic solution on a cell?

Back

In a hypotonic solution, water moves into the cell, causing it to swell and potentially burst.

Front

How does temperature affect diffusion rates?

Back

Higher temperatures increase the kinetic energy of molecules, leading to faster diffusion rates.

Front

What role do cell membranes play in transport?

Back

Cell membranes are selectively permeable, allowing certain substances to pass while blocking others, thus regulating transport.

Front

What is the difference between passive and active transport?

Back

Passive transport does not require energy and moves substances down their concentration gradient, while active transport requires energy to move substances against their concentration gradient.