Biology Essentials - Diffusion Flashcards
What is diffusion?
The spreading of particles from a high to low concentration
How is diffusion relevant in cells receiving oxygen?
High levels of oxygen in the blood stream diffuses into the cells
How is diffusion relevant in cells removing waste?
Waste carbon dioxide and uria in the cells, diffuses out into the low concentrated blood
What affects the rate of diffusion?
The concentration gradient
Temperature
surface area
How does the concentration gradient affect the rate of diffusion?
The greater the concentration gradient, the higher the difference in concentrations and the faster diffusion occurs
How does the temperature affect the rate of diffusion?
The higher the temperature the more kinetic energy the Particles have so move faster
How does the surface area affect the rate of diffusion?
A greater surface area means a faster rate of diffusion
What is facilitated diffusion?
Movement of substances from an area of high to low concentration with the help of a transport molecule
When is facilitated diffusion required?
Some large, electrically charged or lipid-insoluble molecules require assistance to diffuse across the plasma membrane
