How is osmosis defined?

Osmosis is defined as the movement of water across a selectively permeable membrane. This process occurs when there is a difference in solute concentration on either side of the membrane. Water molecules move in the direction of the higher solute concentration, which seeks to equalize the solute concentrations on both sides of the membrane. Since the membrane is selectively permeable, it allows water to move freely while restricting the passage of solutes. This specific movement is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis and plays a vital role in various biological processes, such as nutrient absorption, waste elimination, and the regulation of cell volume. Understanding this definition is essential for studying how cells interact with their environment and how they maintain equilibrium in biological systems.