Question

When a substance crossing the membrane is driven by diffusion, the net flux of that molecule can be described mathematically by_____-

a) Fick's first law.
b) Newton's law of motion.
c) Pascal's principle.
d) Archimedes' principle.

Answer 1

The net flux of a molecule crossing the membrane by diffusion is described by Fick's first law, which relates to concentration differences and diffusion constants.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a substance crossing the membrane is driven by diffusion, the net flux of that molecule can be described mathematically by Fick's first law. This law states that the net rate of diffusion is proportional to the concentration difference across the membrane and the diffusion constant 'D'. Factors such as temperature, and cohesive and adhesive forces, influence the diffusion constant 'D'. Notably, diffusion occurs spontaneously and does not require energy input from the cell, contrasting with active transport that does.