Diffusion and Osmosis Worksheet

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Class _________________
Date _________
Diffusion and Osmosis Worksheet
1. Write the definition of diffusion from memory. If you can’t, refer to the vocabulary sheet
and practice until you can.
2. A membrane that allows all molecules in the solution to pass through is called what type
of membrane?
3. A membrane that allows some molecules in the solution, but not others, to pass through is
called what type of membrane?
4. A membrane that does not allow any molecules in the solution to pass through is called
what type of membrane?
5. Look at the diagram below. Describe what will happen over time. Sketch the situation at
a much later time after equilibrium has been reached.
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6. Consider the container below which has two separate compartments separated by a
permeable membrane. Describe what will happen over time. Sketch the situation at a
much later time. What will be the concentrations of salt and sugar on each half of the
container?
7. What is the percentage of water in each half at the beginning?
8. What is the percentage of water in each half at the end?
9. Did the water move across the membrane?
10. Write down the definition of osmosis from memory. If you can’t, refer to the vocabulary
sheet and practice until you can.
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11. Consider the drawing. What will happen over time?
12. Consider the drawing. The membrane is permeable to salt and water, but not to sugar.
a. What is this type of membrane called?
b. In what direction will the salt move?
c. In what direction with the sugar move?
d. In what direction will the water move?
e. In which compartment will the water rise?
This activity is modified from Biology as Scientific Inquiry, Unit II, Cells and Cell Processes, ©
2010, Connection Point and Ron Thompson.
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