Osmosis and diffusion

In short: Diffusion is the mixing of particles along a concentration gradient, while osmosis specifically describes the movement of water through a semi-permeable membrane. Both processes are fundamental to the exchange of substances in cells.

In more detail: Both processes happen passively, meaning they require no energy from the cell.

In detail

• Diffusion: Particles move from areas of high to low concentration until an equilibrium is reached.
• Osmosis: Water moves through a membrane toward the side with a higher concentration of dissolved substances.
• Cell membrane: It is semi-permeable, letting water through more easily than larger dissolved particles.
• Plasmolysis and turgor: Overly salty water draws water out of plant cells (plasmolysis), while too little salt can make them burst.
• Medical importance: Infusion solutions must be osmotically matched to blood to avoid damaging cells.
• Kidney function: Osmotic processes play a central role in water and salt regulation in the kidneys.
• Everyday examples: Pickling cucumbers in salt water draws water out of them through osmosis, making them more durable (zelle-aufbau-und-funktion, pflanzen-aufbau-und-wachstum).