foundations in microbiology test bank Related

Review foundations in microbiology test bank related questions and content

Which of the following transport mechanisms transports water across the plasma membrane?

  • A. osmosis
  • B. facilitated diffusion
  • C. phagocytosis
  • D. exocytosis
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Osmosis is the correct answer because it is the process by which water molecules move across a semi-permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration. This movement occurs passively, driven by the concentration gradient. Facilitated diffusion (B) involves the transport of specific molecules with the help of carrier proteins, not water. Phagocytosis (C) is a process where cells engulf solid particles, not water molecules. Exocytosis (D) is the process of releasing substances from a cell by fusion of vesicles with the cell membrane, not the transport of water across the membrane.