Osmosis
The movement of water across a semipermeable membrane from low to high solute concentration.
Definition
Osmosis is the passive movement of water molecules through a semipermeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration (higher water concentration) to a region of higher solute concentration (lower water concentration). This continues until equilibrium is reached or osmotic pressure prevents further movement. Osmosis is critical in biology for maintaining cell turgor, kidney function, and nutrient absorption.
Example
“When vegetables are left in a salty brine, water moves out of the vegetable cells by osmosis toward the higher salt concentration outside, causing the vegetables to wilt and become limp.”
Usage Examples
- 1
“The team applied osmosis best practices to improve their biology outcomes significantly.”
- 2
“Understanding osmosis is essential for anyone building a career in STEM.”
When & How to Use
Use 'Osmosis' when working in Biology contexts where osmosis is the passive movement of water molecules through a semipermeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration (higher water concentration) to a region of higher solute concentration (lower water concentration).
- ▸Applying osmosis principles during a biology project or initiative
- ▸Explaining osmosis to a junior team member or stakeholder unfamiliar with STEM
- ▸Evaluating options or proposals using osmosis as a decision-making criterion
Etymology & Origin
The term 'Osmosis' derives from professional usage and entered STEM professional usage as the field formalised in the 20th century.
History & Evolution
The concept of osmosis has evolved alongside STEM. Early practitioners relied on informal methods; structured approaches emerged with the professionalisation of biology in the mid-20th century. Today, osmosis is a standard part of STEM practice globally.
Synonyms
- water diffusion
- passive water transport
- solvent movement
Antonyms / Opposites
- reverse osmosis
Images
CC-licensed · free to useVideo
Related Terms
- Diffusion
- Semipermeable Membrane
- Osmotic Pressure
- Cell Transport