Final answer:
Diffusion is the fastest between compartments when there is a steep concentration gradient, meaning a large difference in concentration levels across the compartments. Lighter molecules and higher temperatures can also expedite diffusion. The process slows down as it nears equilibrium, where the movement of molecules continues but without a net change in distribution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Diffusion is fastest between compartments when there is a large concentration gradient, meaning a significant difference in the concentration of molecules between the two areas. Factors such as the mass of diffusing molecules and temperature also play a role in the rate of diffusion. Lighter molecules will diffuse more quickly, and higher temperatures tend to increase diffusion rates.
When the concentration gradient is steep, diffusion occurs more rapidly because many more molecules will leave a region of high concentration compared to a region with low concentration. However, as the material distribution approaches equilibrium, the rate of diffusion slows down. At dynamic equilibrium, there is continuous movement of molecules, but there is no net movement across compartments.
Finally, diffusion through membranes is an especially important aspect of this process since these thin structures allow for high diffusion rates, and this is essential for the transport of substances like oxygen and carbon dioxide in biological systems.