key term - Diffusion

Definition

Diffusion is the movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration until equilibrium is reached. It is a passive process that requires no energy input.

Related terms

Osmosis:

The diffusion of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Concentration Gradient:

The difference in the concentration of a substance between two areas, which drives diffusion.

Equilibrium: A state where the concentrations of substances are equal throughout a space, indicating that diffusion has balanced out differences