Investigate the processes of diffusion and osmosis using a model membrane system

Graphically demonstrate that a cell's membrane is selective in determining which substances it allows to pass in and out. Using a semipermeable membrane model that simulates a living cell, your students will observe how the process of diffusion allows the cell to absorb vital nutrients and eliminate wastes. Additionally, the class will study osmosis by measuring the water potential from their experimental data and learn about the concept of plasmolysis. Comprehensive background section covers mechanisms of diffusion and osmosis, selectively permeable membranes, the concept of water potential, and the concept of molarity as well as its relationship to osmotic concentration.