Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes osmosis, and what type of membrane transport does it represent?
A
Osmosis is the movement of water molecules from high solute concentration to low solute concentration; it is a type of active transport.
B
Osmosis is the movement of solute molecules from high to low concentration through a membrane; it is a type of active transport.
C
Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to high solute concentration; it is a type of passive transport.
D
Osmosis is the movement of ions across a membrane using ATP; it is a type of facilitated diffusion.
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 direction of water movement in osmosis. Water moves from an area of low solute concentration (high water concentration) to an area of high solute concentration (low water concentration). This movement occurs to balance solute concentrations on both sides of the membrane.
Step 3: Identify the type of membrane transport osmosis represents. Osmosis is a passive transport mechanism, meaning it does not require energy (ATP) to occur. It relies on the natural concentration gradient of water.
Step 4: Evaluate the options provided in the problem. Compare each statement to the definition and characteristics of osmosis. Eliminate incorrect options based on the direction of water movement, the involvement of solutes, and the type of transport (active vs. passive).
Step 5: Select the correct answer: 'Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to high solute concentration; it is a type of passive transport.' This aligns with the scientific definition of osmosis.