Osmosis is defined as what process?

Osmosis is specifically defined as the movement of water molecules through a semi-permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration. This process is essential for maintaining proper hydration and nutrient balance in cells. In biological systems, when a cell is placed in a solution, water moves in or out of the cell to achieve equilibrium of solutes, which is critical for cellular functions. This makes the diffusion of water the primary focus of osmosis, distinguishing it from other types of diffusion that involve gases, solids, or light. Understanding osmosis is fundamental in biology and chemistry, particularly when studying cellular processes and fluid balance within organisms.