8.4B - **Biology Only** Factors Affecting Rate of Diffusion

Question 1

What is the effect of the concentration gradient on the rate of diffusion?

Answer 1

The greater the difference in concentration, the faster the rate of diffusion. This is because more particles are randomly moving down the gradient than are moving against it.

Question 2

How does temperature affect the rate of diffusion?

Answer 2

The greater the temperature, the greater the movement of particles, resulting in more collisions and therefore a faster rate of diffusion.

Question 3

What is the effect of surface area of the membrane on the rate of diffusion?

Answer 3

The greater the surface area, the more space for particles to move through, resulting in a faster rate of diffusion.