Question

the diagram below shows a solution with one solute. the solution fills a closed container that is divided by a membrane. the membrane is permeable to the solute particles.
1 ml 3 ml
the volume on the left is a third of the volume on the right. which of the following statements describes how the solution will change over time?
for the solute particles to reach equilibrium, more particles will move across the membrane from the right to the left.
for the solute particles to reach equilibrium, more particles will move across the membrane from the left to the right.
because the solute particles have reached equilibrium, the same number of particles will move across the membrane in each direction.

Explanation:

Diffusion is the movement of particles from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. The concentration of solute particles on the left is \( \frac{7}{1} = 7 \) particles per mL (since there are 7 particles in 1 mL), and on the right is \( \frac{6}{3}=2 \) particles per mL. So, there is a higher concentration on the left. For equilibrium (equal concentration on both sides), more particles will move from the left (higher - concentration area) to the right (lower - concentration area).

Answer:

For the solute particles to reach equilibrium, more particles will move across the membrane from the left to the right.