Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

Which condition involves the intentional movement of fluids across a semipermeable membrane?

1. Diffusion

2. Osmosis

3. Filtration

4. Active transport

The correct answer is: Osmosis

The correct answer is osmosis, which specifically involves the movement of water across a semipermeable membrane. In osmosis, water molecules move from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration in order to equalize concentrations on both sides of the membrane. This phenomenon is crucial in biological systems, as it helps maintain cellular homeostasis and regulates the movement of water in and out of cells. Osmosis is a passive process driven by the concentration gradient of solutes rather than the direct input of energy. In the context of medical emergencies, understanding osmosis is vital for recognizing and managing conditions related to fluid balance in patients, particularly in situations involving dehydration, edema, or electrolyte imbalances. In contrast, diffusion refers to the movement of solutes from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, not specifically involving a semipermeable membrane or the movement of fluids. Filtration is a physical process that separates particles from fluids through a filter or semipermeable membrane based on size or pressure difference. Active transport, on the other hand, involves the movement of substances across a cell membrane against their concentration gradient, which requires energy, unlike the natural process of osmosis.