Final answer:
The rate of diffusion is influenced by temperature, concentration gradient, and the mass of diffusing molecules. Higher temperatures and steeper concentration gradients speed up diffusion, whereas heavier molecules slow it down.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rate of diffusion of a molecule into a cell is affected by multiple factors. These include temperature, which impacts molecular movement, the concentration gradient, where substances move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, and mass of the diffusing molecules, as heavier molecules diffuse more slowly. Cell size was not specifically mentioned, but it can also influence diffusion rates indirectly by affecting surface area to volume ratios if assuming larger cells.
Specifically:
- Temperature: Higher temperatures increase molecular energy and movement, accelerating diffusion.
- Concentration gradient: A steeper gradient results in a faster diffusion rate until equilibrium is reached.
- Mass of molecules: Heavier molecules move and diffuse more slowly than lighter ones.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is (d) All of the above.