Diffusion vs Osmosis — Difference (with Table & FAQs)
Diffusion vs Osmosis compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table, 4 key points and 3 exam FAQs. Class 10 Biology, free and no sign-up.
TL;DR: Diffusion vs Osmosis compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table, 4 key points and 3 exam FAQs. Class 10 Biology, free and no sign-up.
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
The main difference between Diffusion and Osmosis: Diffusion is movement of particles from high to low concentration. Osmosis is movement of water across semi-permeable membrane.
Diffusion vs Osmosis — Comparison Table
| Basis | Diffusion | Osmosis |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Movement of solute particles | Movement of solvent molecules |
| Requires Membrane | No membrane needed | Requires semi-permeable membrane |
| Driving Force | Concentration gradient | Osmotic pressure |
| Substance Moved | Any substance | Only water molecules |
| Example | Perfume smell spreading | Water entering plant roots |
| Type | Passive and active | Only passive transport |
Key Points
- Both are passive transport processes
- Diffusion moves solutes, osmosis moves solvents
- Osmosis is special case of diffusion
- Both depend on concentration differences
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between diffusion and osmosis?
Diffusion is the movement of any particles from a region of higher concentration to a region of lower concentration. Osmosis is a special case: the movement of water molecules only, across a semi-permeable membrane, from a dilute solution to a concentrated one.
Does osmosis need a membrane?
Yes. Osmosis requires a semi-permeable membrane that lets water through but holds back the dissolved solute. Diffusion needs no membrane at all — a scent spreading through a room is diffusion.
What happens to a plant cell placed in pure water?
Water enters the cell by osmosis because the cell sap is more concentrated. The vacuole swells and pushes the cell contents against the cell wall, making the cell turgid — which is what keeps a plant's soft parts firm.