The Rate of Simple Diffusion Is Directly Proportional to the Concentration Gradient

Question 1

What kind of process is simple diffusion? what does that mean?

Answer 1

Thermodynamically, simple diffusion is always as exergonic process, requiring no input of energy

Question 2

How do molecules diffuse during simple diffusion? What direction will the net flux be in? Uncharged molecules then go where..?

Answer 2

Individual molecules simply diffuse randomly in both directions, but the net flux will always be in the direction of minimum free energy - which in the case of uncharged molecules means down the concentration gradient.

Question 3

Kinetically, what is a key feature of simple diffusion?

Answer 3

the net rate of transport for a specific substance is directly proportional to the concentration difference for the substance across the membrane over a broad concentration range

Question 4

How is simple diffusion characterized by?

Answer 4

characterized by a linear relationship between the inward flux of the solute across the membrane and the concentration gradient of the solute.