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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements best describes a characteristic feature of osmosis?
A
Osmosis is the movement of solute molecules from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration through a membrane.
B
Osmosis requires energy input in the form of ATP to transport water molecules.
C
Osmosis occurs only in non-living systems and does not involve biological membranes.
D
Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration to a region of higher solute concentration.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of osmosis. Osmosis is a 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 a region of lower solute concentration (where there is more water) to a region of higher solute concentration (where there is less water). This movement occurs to balance the solute concentrations on both sides of the membrane.
Step 3: Note that osmosis does not require energy input. It is a passive process, meaning it occurs naturally without the need for ATP or other energy sources.
Step 4: Highlight the biological relevance of osmosis. Osmosis occurs in living systems and involves biological membranes, such as the cell membrane, which is selectively permeable to water but not to certain solutes.
Step 5: Compare the given statements to the correct definition of osmosis. The correct answer is: 'Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration to a region of higher solute concentration.' This aligns with the scientific understanding of osmosis.