Question

Relate the concept of a concentration gradient to the processes of diffusion and osmosis.

Answer 1

1. These both diffusion and osmosis are the types of passive transport.

2. Diffusion- Diffusion is nothing but the movement of molecules from high concentration to low concentration means there is a difference of concentration between two-compartment.  

3. So for diffusion concentration gradient is required.

4. Where in osmosis water moves from low solute concentration to high solute concentration means for osmosis also concentration gradient is required.

5. e.g. If we place a cell into a hypertonic solution then water moves out from the cell due to which cell get shrink and die. And if cell is kept in hypotonic solution then water moves into the cell and cell get swell and burst.