Question

Briefly explain the difference between diffusion and osmosis.

Answer 1

In diffusion, particles move from an area of higher concentration to one of lower concentration until equilibrium is reached. In osmosis, a semipermeable membrane is present, so only the solvent molecules are free to move to equalize concentration.

Answer 2

The main difference between the two is that diffusion can occur in any mixture, even when two solutions aren't separated by a semipermeable membrane, whereas osmosis exclusively occurs across a semipermeable membrane.

Osmosis can only function in a liquid medium, but diffusion can occur in all three mediums (solid, liquid and gas).