When water moves into cells due to osmosis, what is happening to the concentration gradient?

Enhance your knowledge for the General Principles of Physiology Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with detailed explanations. Prepare effectively for your test!

When water moves into cells due to osmosis, the concentration gradient is equalizing. Osmosis is the process by which water moves through a semi-permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration. As water enters the cell, it dilutes the concentration of solutes inside the cell, which reduces the difference in concentration between the inside of the cell and the surrounding solution.

This movement continues until there is an equal concentration of solutes on both sides of the membrane, at which point the concentration gradient is balanced, and no further net movement of water occurs. Thus, the process of water moving into cells clearly illustrates the concept of equalizing the concentration gradient.

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