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Multiple Choice
In an experiment where a selectively permeable membrane separates solutions of iodine, glucose, and starch, which statement best describes the diffusion of these molecules across the membrane?
A
Only starch diffuses across the membrane, while iodine and glucose do not.
B
Neither iodine, glucose, nor starch can diffuse across the membrane.
C
All three molecules—iodine, glucose, and starch—diffuse freely across the membrane.
D
Iodine and glucose diffuse across the membrane, but starch does not.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of selective permeability: A selectively permeable membrane allows certain molecules to pass through while restricting others based on factors like size, charge, or solubility.
Analyze the molecular properties of iodine, glucose, and starch: Iodine is a small molecule, glucose is a small monosaccharide, and starch is a large polysaccharide. The size of the molecule plays a key role in determining its ability to diffuse across the membrane.
Consider the mechanism of diffusion: Diffusion is the movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. Small molecules like iodine and glucose can typically diffuse across a selectively permeable membrane, while larger molecules like starch are often too large to pass through.
Relate the experimental setup to the molecular properties: In this experiment, iodine and glucose are small enough to diffuse across the membrane, while starch, being a large polysaccharide, cannot diffuse due to its size.
Conclude based on the evidence: The correct statement is that iodine and glucose diffuse across the membrane, but starch does not, because the membrane selectively allows smaller molecules to pass while restricting larger ones.