Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What is the process called when water moves from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high concentration?

1. Diffusion

2. Filtration

3. Osmosis

4. Absorption

The correct answer is: Osmosis

The process where water moves from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration is called osmosis. Osmosis is a specific type of passive transport focused on the movement of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane. This movement occurs to balance solute concentrations on both sides of the membrane. In osmosis, water naturally flows toward the region where the solute concentration is higher because water not only seeks to dilute the solute but also to reach equilibrium. This has important implications in biological systems, as the regulation of water movement is crucial for maintaining cell turgidity, nutrient transport, and waste removal. Understanding osmosis is fundamental in various fields, including healthcare and paramedicine, where hydration status and fluid balance are critical components of patient assessment and management.