Cells constantly move organic and inorganic molecules across their organelle membranes and plasma membranes through the cytoplasm to cultivate and achieve a steady state for the cell. For these organisms to survive, these molecules are passed through the barriers surrounding the cell to create a communication between the internal and external environment. The internal state of the cell consists of the cytoplasm, which is an aqueous, soluble solution just like the extracellular environment encircling the organism. The cytoplasm is composed of water, a universal solvent, and the different molecules found in its surroundings are the solute, or dissolved substances. The water is allowed to freely pass through the selectively permeable membrane, or the plasma and organelle membranes, while the molecules movement are regulated. For some dissolved …show more content…
This process is known as active transport, where the energy assists in completing the movement process between the molecule and the cell. Other methods of transport are considered passive, meaning it does not expend any energy. This type of transport consists two processes: Diffusion and Osmosis. Diffusion is a common concept taught in life science, chemistry and, physical science courses (The American Biology Teacher, Vol. 75, No. 6, (August 2013) pp. 391-395). It is the movement of particles from a highly concentrated area to where they can be found in a smaller amount. The particles of a substance would move back and forth until it reaches a stabilized balance, or equilibrium, where it will stop its movement. Diffusion can be found everywhere. For instance, a common form of diffusion is when you spray air freshener in a