Question

difference between osmosis and diffusion

Answer 1

1)Osmosis is the spontaneous net movement of water across a semipermeable membrane from a region of low solute concentration to a more concentrated solution, up a concentration gradient. This equalizes concentrations on both sides of the membrane.
1)Diffusion is a spontaneous movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. (ex. tea flavoring moving from an area of high to low concentration in hot water.)

2)In animals, osmosis influences the distribution of nutrients and the release of metabolic waste products. In plants, osmosis is partially responsible for the absorption of soil water and for the elevation of the liquid to the leaves of the plant.
2)To create energy; Helps in exchange of gases during respiration, photosynthesis, and transpiration.

3) Needs water for movement.

3)Doesn’t need water for movement

Answer 2

OSMOSIS

1) It occurs only in liquid medium .

2) It involves movement of solvent molecules only .

3) Semipermeable membrane is required .

4) Equilibrium in the free energy of solvent molecules is never achieved .


DIFFUSION

1) Diffusion can occur in any medium .

2) The diffusing molecules may be solids , liquid or gases .

3) Semipermeable membrane is not required .

4) An equilibrium in the free energy of diffusion molecules is achieved in the system .