Question
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The rate of diffusion of a molecule into a cell is affected by which of the following factors? Multiple Choice Sower concentration of a molecule outside of the cell Steep concentration gradiont with a high amount of the molecule outside the cell as inside the cell Steep concentration gradient with a high amount of the molecule inside the cell

Ask by Malone Grant. in the United States
Feb 03,2025

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Tutor-Verified Answer

Answer

A steep concentration gradient with a high amount of the molecule outside the cell increases the rate of diffusion into the cell.

Solution

To determine which factors affect the rate of diffusion of a molecule into a cell, let's analyze each option: 1. **Lower concentration of a molecule outside of the cell**: - If the concentration of the molecule outside the cell is lower, the rate of diffusion into the cell will be slower. This is because diffusion occurs from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. Therefore, this option negatively affects the rate of diffusion. 2. **Steep concentration gradient with a high amount of the molecule outside the cell as compared to inside the cell**: - A steep concentration gradient (where there is a significantly higher concentration of the molecule outside the cell than inside) will enhance the rate of diffusion. Molecules will move from the area of higher concentration (outside) to the area of lower concentration (inside), thus increasing the rate of diffusion. 3. **Steep concentration gradient with a high amount of the molecule inside the cell**: - If there is a high concentration of the molecule inside the cell compared to outside, the concentration gradient is reversed. This would slow down or even prevent diffusion into the cell, as molecules would tend to move from inside to outside rather than the other way around. Based on this analysis, the correct answer is: - **Steep concentration gradient with a high amount of the molecule outside the cell as compared to inside the cell**. This factor positively affects the rate of diffusion into the cell.

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The Deep Dive

Did you know that diffusion is not just about molecules moving from a crowded area to a less crowded one? It's like a party where guests are trying to find a more comfortable space! A steep concentration gradient, where the outside concentration is much higher than the inside, leads to a faster diffusion rate. This is because the larger difference drives more molecules to rush inside, just like people streaming into a room with free snacks! In the real world, this principle of diffusion is crucial in many biological processes. For instance, think about how your lungs work—oxygen rapidly diffuses into your bloodstream because there's a steep concentration gradient. Similarly, plant roots take in nutrients from the soil through diffusion, making it essential for their growth and survival. So, next time you breathe or see a plant flourish, remember the power of diffusion at work!

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