Osmosis

Osmosis is a special type of diffusion that involves the movement of water molecules across a partially permeable membrane. 

During osmosis:

• Water moves from an area of dilute solution (where there is a higher concentration of water molecules) to an area of concentrated solution (where there is a lower concentration of water molecules). 

• This process continues until the concentration on both sides of the membrane is balanced.

Osmosis

Importance of osmosis in cells

Plant Cells: 

• Plants rely on osmosis to absorb water from the soil and to maintain cell turgidity. 

• Turgid cells are swollen with water, which helps the plant stay upright and supported. 

• If plant cells lose water, they become flaccid (soft) and the plant may wilt.

Animal Cells: 

• Animal cells also use osmosis to balance water levels. 

• Unlike plant cells, animal cells lack a cell wall. This means that if an animal cell absorbs too much water, it can swell and eventually burst (lysis) due to the pressure inside the cell. 

• If too much water leaves the cell, it will shrink and may become dehydrated.

Measuring osmosis