Concentration gradient
Concentration Gradient
The Concentration Gradient (pronunciation: /ˌkɒnsənˈtreɪʃən ˈɡreɪdiənt/) is a term used in several branches of the sciences, including biology, chemistry, and physics. It refers to the gradual change in the concentration of solutes in a solution over a distance due to a region of high solute concentration and a region of low solute concentration.
Etymology
The term "Concentration Gradient" is derived from the English words "concentration" and "gradient". "Concentration" (from Latin concentratus, past participle of concentrare meaning "to concentrate") refers to the amount of a component in a given area or volume. "Gradient" (from Latin gradientem, present participle of gradi meaning "to walk or step") in this context refers to the rate of change with respect to distance of a variable quantity, as temperature or pressure, in the direction of maximum change.
Understanding the Concept
A concentration gradient occurs when the concentration of particles is higher in one area than another. In passive transport, particles will diffuse down a concentration gradient, from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration, until they are evenly spaced. In active transport, energy is used to move particles against a concentration gradient, from areas of lower concentration to areas of higher concentration.
Related Terms
- Diffusion: The process by which particles spread from areas of high concentration to areas of low concentration.
- Osmosis: The diffusion of water through a semi-permeable membrane from a region of low solute concentration to a region of high solute concentration.
- Active Transport: The movement of ions or molecules across a cell membrane into a region of higher concentration, assisted by enzymes and requiring energy.
- Passive Transport: The movement of biochemicals and other atomic or molecular substances across cell membranes without need of energy input.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Concentration gradient
- Wikipedia's article - Concentration gradient
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