DIFFUSION POTENTIAL Meaning and
Definition
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Diffusion potential is a term used in the field of biology and physiology to describe the electrical potential difference that arises across a semipermeable membrane due to the unequal concentration of ions on either side. It occurs as a result of diffusion, which is the natural tendency of particles, such as ions, to move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.
When there is a concentration gradient established across a semipermeable membrane, ions will diffuse from the side with higher concentration to the side with lower concentration until equilibrium is reached. This movement of ions creates a separation of charge across the membrane, resulting in the generation of a diffusion potential. In other words, the diffusion potential represents the electrical potential difference generated as a result of the movement of ions through the membrane.
The magnitude and direction of the diffusion potential depend on the difference in ion concentrations across the membrane as well as the permeability of the membrane to the ions. If the membrane is more permeable to one type of ion, such as sodium (Na+), the diffusion potential will be more influenced by the concentration gradient of that particular ion.
Diffusion potentials play a crucial role in various biological processes, such as nerve cell signaling and the transport of ions across cell membranes. They are essential for maintaining the proper functioning of cells and the overall balance of ions within biological systems.
Common Misspellings for DIFFUSION POTENTIAL
- siffusion potential
- xiffusion potential
- ciffusion potential
- fiffusion potential
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- eiffusion potential
- duffusion potential
- djffusion potential
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- didfusion potential
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- divfusion potential
- digfusion potential
- ditfusion potential
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- difdusion potential
- difcusion potential
Etymology of DIFFUSION POTENTIAL
The etymology of the word "diffusion potential" can be traced back to the Latin roots of its individual components.
1. Diffusion: The word "diffusion" is derived from the Latin word "diffusio", which means "a pouring out" or "dispersion". In the context of diffusion potential, it refers to the process of molecules or ions spreading apart or moving from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.
2. Potential: The word "potential" is derived from the Latin word "potentialis", which means "power" or "ability". In the context of diffusion potential, it refers to the difference in electric charge or voltage between two points. This potential difference arises due to the movement of charged particles across a membrane or a concentration gradient.
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