Which of the following statements about osmosis is correct?

• A. Osmosis occurs only in non-living systems.
• B. Osmosis is the movement of solvent molecules through a semipermeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration to a region of higher solute concentration.
• C. Osmosis requires energy in the form of ATP to occur.
• D. Osmosis is the movement of solute molecules from a region of lower concentration to a region of higher concentration.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key concept: Osmosis is a process involving the movement of solvent molecules, not solute molecules.
2. Understand the direction of movement: In osmosis, solvent molecules move from a region of lower solute concentration to a region of higher solute concentration.
3. Recognize the role of the semipermeable membrane: Osmosis occurs through a semipermeable membrane that allows only certain molecules, typically solvent molecules, to pass through.
4. Clarify the energy requirement: Osmosis is a passive process and does not require energy in the form of ATP.
5. Evaluate the statements: Compare each statement with the correct definition of osmosis to determine which one accurately describes the process.