What is osmosis?

Osmosis is defined as the diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane. This process occurs when water molecules move from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration, thereby attempting to equalize solute concentrations on either side of the membrane. The selectively permeable nature of the membrane allows water to pass through while restricting the movement of larger solute particles, making it a vital process for maintaining cellular homeostasis.

This movement is essential for various biological functions, including nutrient absorption, waste removal, and maintaining cell turgor, which is particularly important in plant cells. It is a passive process and does not require the expenditure of energy, distinguishing it from processes that involve active transport, where energy is utilized to move substances against their concentration gradient. This understanding of osmosis is crucial in many biological contexts, from cellular physiology to medical applications dealing with fluid balance in the body.