The Diffusion of Water Across a Selectively Permeable (Biological)membrane Is

Question

The diffusion of water across a selectively permeable (biological)membrane is
A) osmosis.
B) active transport.
C) always beneficial to a cell.
D) a rare occurrence.
E) a process that always requires proteins.

Accepted Answer

The diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane is known as osmosis. This process occurs spontaneously and does not require any energy or additional proteins. However, the direction and rate of osmosis can be affected by the concentration gradient of solutes on either side of the membrane. Osmosis is essential for maintaining proper cell function, but excessive or inadequate water movement can lead to cell dehydration or swelling, respectively.