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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes osmosis?
A
The movement of solute molecules from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration through a membrane.
B
The movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.
C
The active transport of ions against their concentration gradient using energy.
D
The bulk movement of substances into a cell by engulfing them in vesicles.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of osmosis. Osmosis is a specific type of passive transport that involves the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane.
Step 2: Clarify the driving force behind osmosis. Water molecules move from an area of low solute concentration (where there is more water) to an area of high solute concentration (where there is less water) to balance the solute concentrations on both sides of the membrane.
Step 3: Compare the given options to the definition of osmosis. Eliminate options that describe the movement of solutes, active transport, or bulk transport, as these are distinct processes and do not align with the definition of osmosis.
Step 4: Focus on the correct description of osmosis, which is the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.
Step 5: Confirm that the correct answer matches the definition of osmosis and does not involve energy expenditure, as osmosis is a passive process.