How are molecules distributed in the environment? As explained in this animation, the random movement of molecules in a gas or a liquid will cause the molecules to become evenly distributed in the environment. If we look at the environments in which cells exist, for example inside a body or in a pond, we do not see an even distribution of molecules associated with life. Cells prevent, control, and even work counter to diffusion to create concentration gradients, to exclude waste or harmful materials, and to store needed materials. Life can be described as a process of controlling the diffusion of molecules.
Molecules from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration.
Molecules from areas of lower concentration to areas of higher concentration.
Water molecules across a membrane
Gas molecules across a membrane.
Gas or water molecules across a membrane.
Molecules of sugar stop moving.
Water and sugar molecules are moving at the same speed.
The dissolved sugar molecules are evenly distributed throughout the solution.
There are the same number of water molecules as dissolved sugar molecules.
Two tablespoons of coffee are added.
Temperature
Size of molecules
Steepness of the concentration gradient
A and B
A, B and C
True
False
True
False