This is a question I am stumped on in my anatomy and physiology class in college. I am a nursing student and I need help; Thank You for your time and your help is greatly appreciated in answering this question.
ThanksWhat is a gradient, how and why gradients drive diffusion?
A gradient is a difference in concentrations in different areas. Diffusion is the process by which molecules move from an area of greater concentration to an area of lesser concentration (for example, perfume spreads when released). Molecules that are diffusing are said to be moving ';down the concentration gradient';, because they are going to the area of lesser concentration.What is a gradient, how and why gradients drive diffusion?
gradient is the relationship of the concentration of one substance to the concentration of the same substance, separated by a membrane.
ex) 40% salt solution on one side and 80% salt solution on the other.
this gradient drives diffusion because diffusion works to even the difference out. since diffusion is a passive transport system (no energy required), the membrane has to be permeable to the substance.
after time, the gradient will drive the salt solutions on both sides to equal the same (60% on each side of the membrane)
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment