What is the difference between osmosis and diffusion?

Osmosis and diffusion are both processes that involve the movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration in order to achieve equilibrium. However, there are some key differences between the two processes.

1. Definition: Diffusion is the movement of particles (such as molecules, ions, or atoms) from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. Osmosis, on the other hand, is a specific type of diffusion that involves the movement of water molecules across a semi-permeable membrane from an area of high water concentration to an area of low water concentration.

2. Selectivity: Diffusion can occur through any type of membrane or barrier, while osmosis specifically refers to the movement of water molecules across a semi-permeable membrane.

3. Solutes: In diffusion, any type of particle can move across a membrane, while in osmosis, only water molecules are moving across the membrane.

4. Types of substances involved: Diffusion can involve any type of substance, while osmosis specifically involves the movement of water molecules.

In summary, diffusion is the general process of particles moving from areas of high concentration to low concentration, while osmosis specifically refers to the movement of water molecules across a semi-permeable membrane.