B1- Diffusion

• What is diffusion?

  Diffusion is the gradual movement of particles from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration.
• Why is diffusion described as "natural spreading out"?

  Because it involves particles moving randomly until they are evenly mixed.
• In which states of matter does diffusion occur?

  Diffusion occurs in both solutions and gases.
• What is an example of diffusion in gases?

  The smell of perfume diffusing through the air in a room.
• How does the concentration gradient affect the diffusion rate?

  A larger concentration gradient results in a faster diffusion rate.
• How does temperature influence the diffusion rate?

  A higher temperature increases the diffusion rate because particles have more energy and move faster.
• What are the functions of cell membranes in relation to diffusion?

  • Hold the cell together
  • Allow substances to move in and out by diffusion
• What types of molecules can diffuse through cell membranes?

  Very small molecules like oxygen, glucose, amino acids, and water can diffuse through cell membranes.
• Why can't starch and proteins diffuse through cell membranes?

  Because they are too large to fit through the membranes.
• How does the movement of particles occur across the cell membrane?

  Particles move from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration, resulting in a net movement.
• What happens to the movement of particles when there are more on one side of the membrane?

  There is a net movement from the side with more particles to the side with fewer particles.
• How does the surface area of a membrane affect the diffusion rate?

  A larger surface area increases the diffusion rate because more particles can pass through at once.