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Osmotic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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osmotic

[ɒzˈmɒtɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

biological process

Osmotic refers to the process of osmosis, which is the movement of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration to a region of higher solute concentration. This process is crucial for maintaining cell turgor and regulating fluid balance in organisms. Osmotic movement is essential in various biological systems, including plant physiology and human kidneys. It plays a significant role in numerous medical and scientific applications, particularly in understanding how fluids flow in and out of cells.

Synonyms

fluid-dynamic, solute-based.

Examples of usage

  • Osmotic pressure affects plant hydration.
  • The osmotic balance is vital for cell function.
  • Osmotic gradients are crucial in kidney function.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • In plants, osmotic pressure is vital for maintaining turgidity, which helps them stay upright.
  • Cells use osmosis to balance fluids, which is essential for processes like nutrient absorption and waste removal.
  • Osmotic processes are crucial in kidney function, helping to keep the body’s mineral and water balance.

Chemistry

  • The movement of water across membranes is a fundamental principle in chemistry known as 'osmotic potential'.
  • Osmosis can cause solutions to reach isotonic states, where two solutions have equal concentrations.
  • Researchers apply osmotic pressure in various chemical reactions to control the movement of substances.

Health and Medicine

  • Osmotic agents are used in medicine, like certain laxatives that draw water into the intestines.
  • In the treatment of dehydration, osmotic solutions are administered to restore fluid balance in the body.
  • When administering medications intravenously, the osmotic balance is crucial to prevent cell damage.

Environmental Science

  • Osmotic processes are key in desalination techniques that help obtain fresh water from seawater.
  • Understanding osmotic dynamics aids in wastewater treatment, optimizing how pollutants are filtered.
  • Osmotic pressure plays a role in both natural ecosystems and artificial environments like aquariums.

Origin of 'osmotic'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'osmotic' comes from the Greek word 'osmos', meaning 'push' or 'thrust'.
  • It was first used in the 19th century when scientists began studying how liquids move through membranes.
  • The concept of osmosis was popularized following the discovery of cell membranes in biology.

The term 'osmotic' is derived from the word 'osmosis', which stems from the Greek word 'ōsmos', meaning 'push' or 'thrust'. Osmosis was first described in the mid-19th century by scientists exploring the behavior of water and solutes in biological systems. It was observed that water naturally flows across semipermeable membranes, a phenomenon crucial for living organisms. The introduction of the term 'osmotic' to describe the pertaining processes occurred as biology and chemistry began to converge, allowing for a better understanding of cellular functions. The concept has evolved significantly with advancements in biophysics and cellular biology, becoming foundational in disciplines such as medicine, nutrition, and environmental science.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,514, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.