A container is divided into two compartments by a membrane...

A container is divided into two compartments by a membrane that is fully permeable to water and small ions. Water is added to one side of the membrane (side $\mathrm{A}$ ), and a $5 \%$ solution of sodium chloride (NaCl) is added to the other (side B). In which direction will water molecules move? In which direction will sodium and chloride ions move? When the concentration is equal on both sides, will diffusion stop?

A container is divided into two compartments by a membrane that is fully permeable to water and small ions. Water is added to one side of the membrane (side $\mathrm{A}$ ), and a $5 \%$ solution of sodium chloride (NaCl) is added to the other (side B). In which direction
will water molecules move? In which direction will sodium and chloride ions move? When the concentration is equal on both sides, will diffusion stop?

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Key Concepts

Dynamic Equilibrium

Dynamic equilibrium is the state in which the rates of forward and reverse processes, such as diffusion and osmosis, are equal. Even when the concentrations appear balanced, there is continuous movement of molecules in both directions, ensuring that no net change occurs, yet molecular motion persists.

Osmosis

Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration to a region of higher solute concentration. This process continues until the chemical potential of water is equal on both sides of the membrane, helping to balance the concentrations of solutes indirectly.

Diffusion

Diffusion refers to the passive movement of particles, such as ions or molecules, from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. This process is driven by the concentration gradient and occurs until the concentration is uniform throughout the available space.

Membrane Permeability

Membrane permeability describes the ability of a membrane to allow particular substances to pass through it. In systems where the membrane is fully permeable to both water and small ions, both water and ions can move freely across, though their driving forces (osmotic vs concentration gradient) may differ.

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