Question

An experiment was conducted investigating diffusion. Look at the diagram, which shows the process of diffusion. Then, answer the question. The diagram shows the process of diffusion. There are many molecules on the right side of the membrane, and there are very few molecules on the left side of the membrane.

Why will the molecules move from right to left through the cell membrane?
a) Molecules will move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.
b) Molecules will move from an area of lower concentration to an area of higher concentration.
c) Molecules will move in the opposite direction from the flow of cytoplasm.
d) Molecules will move in the same direction as the flow of cytoplasm.

Answer 1

Molecules in the given scenario will move from the right side of the membrane, where they are more concentrated, to the left side where they are less concentrated, as per the principles of diffusion. Therefore, the most appropriate correct option is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

The molecules will move from the right side of the membrane (where they are in higher concentration) to the left side (where there is a lower concentration). This process is known as diffusion. Answer (a) "Molecules will move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration" is correct because diffusion is a passive process where molecules move down their concentration gradient without the use of energy.

Furthermore, diffusion continues until there is an equal concentration, or equilibrium, on both sides of the membrane, which is why substances like oxygen enter cells where they are less concentrated, and waste products like carbon dioxide exit cells where they exist in higher concentrations.