diffusion

Question 1

define the term ‘diffusion’

Answer 1

diffusion is the net movement of particles from a region of higher concentration to that of lower concentration down the concentration gradient, as a result of random movement.

Question 2

factors which affect diffusion and explain

Answer 2

1. temperature- the higher the temperature, the faster the rate of diffusion
2. surface area- the larger the surface area, the faster the rate of diffusion.
3. distance- the greater the distance, the slower the rate of diffusion
4. concentration gradient- the higher the concentration, the faster the rate of diffusion
5. the size of molecule- the larger the size of the molecule, the slower the rate of diffusion.

Question 3

state the importance of diffusion in gases

Answer 3

1. respiration
2. removal of carbon dioxide
3. photosynthesis: diffusion of carbon dioxide into the stomata and removal of oxygen from the stomata.

Question 4

state the important of diffusion in solutes

Answer 4

1. diffusion of nutrient from pregnant mother to baby through placenta.
2. diffusion of amino acids [from proteins], glucose [from carbohydrates and glycerol [from fats and oils] from small intestine to bloodstream.
3. dialysis machine diffuses small solutes from the blood.