Question

The diffusion of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane is known as

• A. diffusion
• B. imbibition
• C. plasmolysis
• D. osmosis

Answer 1

The correct option is D

osmosis

The correct option is D.

Explanation of correct option:

1. Osmosis is a simple diffusion process. The process of spontaneous net flow of solvent molecules from a selectively permeable membrane into a region of high solute concentration is referred to as osmosis.
2. When a cell is immersed in water, water molecules flow through a selectively permeable membrane from a low-solute-concentration area to a high-solute-concentration area.
3. Osmosis helps in the extraction of water from the soil by plant roots.
4. Osmosis regulates the movement of guard cells.

Explanation of incorrect options:

Option A- The movement of molecules from a high concentration to a low concentration region until a state of equilibrium is reached in the presence of a concentration gradient is referred to as diffusion.

Option B- Imbibition is the process by which water is absorbed by solids-colloids, causing them to increase drastically in volume.

Option C- Plasmolysis is the contraction of a cell caused by the continued flow of water molecules out of it.

The diffusion of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane is known as osmosis.