Question

The inward diffusion of water molecules through a semi-permeable membrane when the surrounding is less concentrated is called _____.

(exosmosis/endosmosis)

Answer 1

Diffusion:

• Diffusion is a process where gases, liquids, and solids move freely from a region of higher concentration to a region of lower concentration along the concentration gradient.
• Diffusion is involved in many chemical and physiological functions of plants such as respiration, photosynthesis, and absorption of gases by roots.

Endosmosis:

• When the surrounding solution is less concentrated and the cell sap is highly concentrated water molecules move into the cell sap and out of the surrounding solution to dilute the cell sap and reach the state of equilibrium.
• When solvent (i.e., water molecule) moves in an inward direction of the cell membrane when the surrounding is less concentrated, it is called endosmosis.
• Endosmosis helps in the transportation of water from roots to the xylem vessels of the plants.

Final answer:

The inward diffusion of water molecules through a semi-permeable membrane when the surrounding is less concentrated is called endosmosis.