Let me share with you a comparison between Osmosis and Diffusion.
| Aspect | Osmosis | Diffusion |
| Introduction | · The movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration. | · The movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, along a concentration gradient. |
| Medium | · Involves the movement of water (solvent) across a membrane. | · Can involve the movement of any type of molecule |
| Selective Barrier | · Requires a selectively permeable membrane that allows the passage of water molecules | · Can occur in the absence of a membrane |
| Dependence on medium | · Primarily occurs in aqueous solutions and relies on the presence of water molecules. | · Can occur in liquids, gases and across membranes, depending on the properties of the diffusing substance. |
| Role in Cells | · Crucial for maintaining cell turgor pressure and water balance in cells. | · Important for nutrient uptake, waste removal and the overall equilibrium of substances within cells. |
| Examples | · Water movement into plant cells and red blood cells. | · Perfume spreading in a room · Movement of oxygen and carbon dioxide in and out of cells during respiration. |