Cell Biology Flashcards
Define Diffusion
Diffusion is the spreading out of particles from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.
True or False: Diffusion only happens in gases?
False, it occurs in solutions and gases
What is the concentration gradient?
The difference in concentration
True or False: The bigger the concentration gradient, the faster the rate of diffusion.
True
How does the temperature affect the rate of diffusion?
A higher temperature will give a faster diffusion rate because the particles have more energy and will move around faster.
Cell membranes are semi-permeable. What does this mean?
It means they let some molecules through but not all molecules.
True or False: Dissolved substances can move in and out of cells by diffusion.
True
True or False: Particles can only move one way through a semi-permeable membrane
False, the movement is random so the particles can move both ways
What does a ‘net movement’ mean?
the overall movement of the particles
How does the surface area of the membrane affect the diffusion rate?
A larger surface means a higher diffusion rate because more particles can pass through at once.
Give three factors that can affect the rate of diffusion:
• Concentration gradient - the bigger the gradient, the faster the rate of diffusion
• Temperature - the higher the temperature, the faster the rate of diffusion
• Surface area of a cell membrane - the larger the surface area, the faster the rate of diffusion
Define Osmosis
Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a partially permeable membrane from an area of high concentration to an area of lower concentration.
What is a hypotonic solution?
A solution with low solute concentration and a higher water concentration
What is a hypertonic solution?
A solution with a higher solute concentration and a lower water concentration
What is an isotonic solution?
A solution with the same solute concentration and the same water concentration in relation to another substance.
What are the two main stages of the cell cycle?
- Growth and DNA Replication
- Mitosis