Diffusion: GCSE Biology Definition

Emma Archbold

Written by: Emma Archbold

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What is diffusion?

In GCSE biology, diffusion is the net movement of particles from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. This movement is said to occur down a concentration gradient. When particles move by diffusion, the process continues until they are evenly distributed.

Diffusion can involve particles of a gas or particles in a solution. It is passive, meaning that it does not require energy to take place.

Diagram illustrating perfume particles diffusing through the air, moving from a concentrated to an evenly spread distribution.
Perfume particles in air diffuse from a region of higher concentration to a region of lower concentration until they are evenly distributed

Diffusion can take place across cell membranes in living organisms, e.g. oxygen diffuses into the blood during gas exchange, and urea diffuses out of the blood during excretion.

Diffusion revision resources to ace your exams

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Emma Archbold

Author: Emma Archbold

Expertise: Biology

Prior to working at SME, Emma was a Biology teacher for 5 years. During those years she taught three different GCSE exam boards and two A-Level exam boards, gaining a wide range of teaching expertise in the subject. Emma particularly enjoys learning about ecology and conservation. Emma is passionate about making her students achieve the highest possible grades in their exams by creating amazing revision resources!

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