What is osmosis?

Osmosis specifically refers to the diffusion of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane. This process is essential for maintaining proper cellular function, as it allows cells to regulate their internal environment in relation to their external surroundings.

In osmosis, water moves from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration. This movement continues until equilibrium is reached, where the concentration of solute is balanced on both sides of the membrane. The selectively permeable nature of the membrane means that it allows water to flow freely while restricting the movement of solutes, which is crucial for many biological processes, including nutrient absorption and waste removal.

Understanding osmosis is fundamental in biology because it illustrates how cells manage water intake and maintain osmotic balance, which is vital for cell survival and function.