Osmosis when membrane is permeable to both solute and water?

In summary, osmosis is the process of water molecules moving from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration through a semi-permeable membrane. When the membrane is permeable to both solute and water, the direction of osmosis depends on the relative concentrations of solute and water. The rate of osmosis is affected by factors such as concentration gradient, surface area of the membrane, and temperature. The purpose of osmosis is to maintain the balance of fluids and nutrients within cells. Osmosis differs from diffusion in that it specifically refers to the movement of water molecules and requires a semi-permeable membrane.
  • #1
sameeralord
662
3
Hello everyone,

Lets say there is a membrane, which has a channel for the solute(eg sodium) and another channel for water

Now if I have a hypertonic (more sodium) solution in side A, and hypotonic (less sodium) solution in side B. Which way would water go?

* I'm very confused here diffusion and osmosis both occurring.

Does water follow sodium or sodium follows water?

Thanks :smile:
 
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  • #2
Do they have to go in the same direction?
 

1. What is osmosis?

Osmosis is the process by which water molecules move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration through a semi-permeable membrane.

2. How does osmosis work when the membrane is permeable to both solute and water?

In this scenario, both the solute and water molecules are able to pass through the membrane. The direction of osmosis will depend on the relative concentrations of solute and water on either side of the membrane.

3. What factors affect the rate of osmosis when the membrane is permeable to both solute and water?

The rate of osmosis is affected by the concentration gradient, the surface area of the membrane, and the thickness of the membrane. Additionally, the type of solute and the temperature can also impact the rate of osmosis.

4. What is the purpose of osmosis when the membrane is permeable to both solute and water?

Osmosis is an important process for maintaining the balance of fluids and nutrients within cells. It allows for the movement of necessary molecules while preventing the loss of important substances.

5. What is the difference between osmosis and diffusion?

Osmosis specifically refers to the movement of water molecules, while diffusion refers to the movement of any type of molecule. Additionally, osmosis requires a semi-permeable membrane, while diffusion can occur in any medium.

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