Question

two solutions of different solute concentration are separated by a membrane as shown in the diagram. after a while, the water levels of the two solutions change. draw what the water levels will look like when equilibrium is reached. what process is responsible for the changing water levels? initial state a b water semi - permeable membrane dissolved salt

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze Solute Concentration

In the initial state, side A has more dissolved salt (red dots) than side B, so A has a higher solute concentration and lower water potential, while B has lower solute concentration and higher water potential.

Step2: Predict Water Movement

Water moves across the semi - permeable membrane from the region of higher water potential (B) to lower water potential (A) via osmosis. So water will flow from B to A.

Step3: Determine Equilibrium Levels

When equilibrium is reached, the water level in A will be higher than in B. The process responsible is osmosis, which is the movement of water molecules across a semi - permeable membrane from an area of higher water potential to an area of lower water potential.

Answer:

When equilibrium is reached, the water level in arm A of the U - tube will be higher than the water level in arm B. The process responsible for the changing water levels is osmosis.