Diffusion and Concentration Gradients

Vocabulary flashcards about key concepts related to diffusion, concentration gradients, and free energy.

Diffusion

Diffusion represents random motion, but this motion leads to molecules moving from high to low concentration areas, distributing evenly in a solution.

Concentration Gradient

A membrane barrier can create a concentration gradient, representing a decrease in entropy and increase in order.

Free Energy Storage

Energy stored in a system to do work. Setting up a gradient requires an increase in free energy.

Entropy

The measure of disorder or randomness in a system. Diffusion increases entropy by evenly distributing molecules.

Free Energy

The energy available in a system that can be used to do work. Creating a concentration gradient increases free energy.