Definition check — osmosis: Identify what is incorrect in this statement. Statement under review: “Osmosis is the flow of solution from higher concentration to a solution of lower concentration through a semipermeable membrane.” Choose the option that best identifies the error(s).
General Knowledge
Biology
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AIt should be the flow of <strong>solvent</strong>, not solution.
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BThe direction is wrong; solvent moves from <strong>lower solute concentration</strong> (higher water potential) to <strong>higher solute concentration</strong>.
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CThe mention of a semipermeable membrane is incorrect.
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DBoth (a) and (b) are incorrect in the statement.
Answer
Correct Answer: Both (a) and (b) are incorrect in the statement.
Explanation
Given data
- We must diagnose the error(s) in a proposed definition of osmosis.
Correct conceptOsmosis is the net movement of solvent molecules (usually water) across a semipermeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration (higher water potential) to a region of higher solute concentration (lower water potential).
Why the statement is wrong• It says solution flows; osmosis concerns the solvent (Error (a)).• It states flow from higher to lower concentration; correct direction is solvent from lower solute concentration → higher solute concentration (Error (b)).• The mention of a semipermeable membrane is appropriate, so (c) is false.
Common pitfalls
- Confusing “concentration” of solute with “water potential.”
- Thinking bulk solution moves; in osmosis, it is the solvent that diffuses.
Final AnswerBoth errors (a) and (b) are present.