What is the main difference between diffusion and osmosis?

• A. Diffusion involves the movement of solute particles, while osmosis involves the movement of solvent molecules.
• B. Diffusion requires a semipermeable membrane, while osmosis does not.
• C. Diffusion is a passive process, while osmosis is an active process.
• D. Osmosis occurs only in gases, while diffusion occurs in liquids.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that diffusion and osmosis are both processes involving the movement of particles, but they differ in the type of particles that move.
2. Recognize that diffusion involves the movement of solute particles from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, without the need for a semipermeable membrane.
3. Identify that osmosis specifically refers to the movement of solvent molecules, typically water, across a semipermeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration to a region of higher solute concentration.
4. Clarify that both diffusion and osmosis are passive processes, meaning they do not require energy input to occur.
5. Note that diffusion can occur in gases, liquids, and solids, while osmosis is a process that occurs in liquid solutions, particularly involving water as the solvent.