During osmosis, water will move in which direction across a semipermeable membrane?

• A. From a region of lower pressure to a region of higher pressure
• B. From a region of lower solute concentration to a region of higher solute concentration
• C. From a region of higher solute concentration to a region of lower solute concentration
• D. From a region of higher pressure to a region of lower pressure

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of osmosis: Osmosis is the movement of water across a semipermeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration to a region of higher solute concentration.
2. Identify the driving force of osmosis: The process is driven by the concentration gradient of solutes, not by pressure differences.
3. Recognize the role of the semipermeable membrane: This membrane allows only water molecules to pass through, not solute particles, which is crucial for osmosis.
4. Consider the implications of solute concentration: Water moves to balance the solute concentrations on both sides of the membrane, aiming to reach equilibrium.
5. Apply this understanding to the given options: The correct direction of water movement during osmosis is from a region of lower solute concentration to a region of higher solute concentration.