Life: The Science of Biology 11th Edition

Published by W. H. Freeman
ISBN 10: 1-31901-016-4
ISBN 13: 978-1-31901-016-4

Chapter 51 - Salt and Water Balance and Nitrogen Excretion - 51.1 - Excretory Systems Regulate Osmotic and Ionic Concentrations - 51.1 Recap - Learning Outcomes - Page 1096: 1

Answer

As a small molecule, water can simply diffuse across a membrane despite its polarity. This diffusion follows a concentration gradient. Water can also penetrate a membrane via aquaporins, which are channel proteins that specifically facilitate water transport and movement of small solutes.

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