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Osmotic - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Osmotic refers to the movement of a solvent, like water, through a semipermeable membrane from a less concentrated solution to a more concentrated one, balancing solute levels on both sides.

osmotic

/ɑzˈmɑtɪk/ /ɒzˈmɒtɪk/

Definition:

Relating to the movement of solvent molecules through a semipermeable membrane from low to high concentration.

Synonyms:

permeable, absorptive, diffusive

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

impermeable, nonporous

Common Collocations:

osmotic pressure, osmotic gradient, osmotic balance

Derivatives:

osmotically, osmosis

Usage Tips:

Use "osmotic" to describe processes involving passive liquid movement through membranes, like in biology or chemistry contexts.

Common Phrases:

osmotic shock, osmotic regulation, osmotic equilibrium

Etymology:

Derived from Greek "osmos" (push) and "-tic" (relating to), referring to liquid diffusion through membranes.

Examples:

  • 1. The plant absorbs water through osmotic processes in its roots.
  • 2. Osmotic pressure helps maintain cell stability in saline environments.
  • 3. The doctor explained the patient’s condition using osmotic principles.
  • 4. Fish regulate salt levels via osmotic mechanisms in their gills.

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