During osmosis, how do solvent molecules move?

Osmosis is the process where solvent molecules, typically water, move through a selectively permeable membrane. This movement occurs from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration. The driving force behind this process is the tendency to equalize solute concentrations on both sides of the membrane.

When solvent molecules are in an environment where there is a difference in solute concentration, they naturally move towards the area with a higher concentration of solute. This movement aims to dilute the higher concentration of solute, ultimately leading to an equal concentration of solute on both sides of the membrane. This concept is essential in biological systems, where osmosis plays a critical role in maintaining cell turgor and balance of fluids in and out of cells.

Understanding this movement is crucial for grasping biological processes, such as nutrient absorption and the regulation of water balance in living organisms.