Key Concepts in Diffusion and Osmosis
This section covers essential concepts related to diffusion in Biology, including osmosis and the properties of solutions in relation to cells.
Diffusion Recap
Definition: Diffusion is the movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.
Key areas where diffusion occurs in the body include:
- Between lungs and blood
- Between blood and cells
- In the small intestine
- In plant leaves and roots
Solution Properties
Understanding the properties of solutions in relation to cell contents is crucial for comprehending cellular processes.
Vocabulary:
- Hypertonic: A solution more concentrated than the cell contents
- Isotonic: A solution with the same concentration as the cell contents
- Hypotonic: A solution less concentrated than the cell contents
These concepts are vital for understanding cellular behavior in different environments.
Osmosis
Definition: Osmosis is the diffusion of water molecules from a dilute solution to a concentrated solution through a partially permeable membrane.
Vocabulary: A partially permeable membrane allows small molecules to pass through but restricts larger ones.
Osmosis is a specific type of diffusion that plays a crucial role in many biological processes, particularly in maintaining cell volume and shape.
Understanding these concepts is essential for students studying GCSE Biology and preparing for exams like AQA. They form the foundation for more advanced topics in biology and are frequently tested in assessments such as those found on BBC Bitesize KS3.
