Which of the following is an example of an exothermic reaction?

Choice A reason: Movement of substances from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration describes simple diffusion, not osmosis. Simple diffusion involves the passive movement of molecules (other than water) down their concentration gradient, directly across the cell membrane. This process doesn't require energy and isn't specific to water molecules. Substances like gases (oxygen and carbon dioxide) and small, nonpolar molecules often move in this way to reach equilibrium.

Choice B reason: Movement of substances against a concentration gradient with the help of transport proteins defines active transport, not osmosis. Active transport requires energy, typically in the form of ATP, to move molecules from an area of low concentration to an area of high concentration. This is the opposite of passive processes like diffusion and osmosis. Examples include the sodium-potassium pump that maintains the electrochemical gradient in nerve cells, and the transport of glucose into cells of the intestines and kidneys.

Choice C reason: This is the correct description of osmosis. Osmosis specifically refers to the movement of water molecules

through a selectively permeable membrane. The membrane allows water molecules to pass through while preventing the movement of solutes (like salts and sugars) to maintain a balance of water on both sides of the membrane. This process is crucial for maintaining cell turgor in plants, regulating fluid balance in tissues and organs, and facilitating nutrient absorption and waste removal in all living organisms. Osmosis is a vital physiological process because it helps cells maintain their shape and function by controlling internal water balance.

Choice D reason: Movement of substances into a cell by engulfing them with the plasma membrane is known as endocytosis, not osmosis. Endocytosis is an active process where cells internalize large particles, such as nutrients and pathogens, by engulfing them with the cell membrane to form a vesicle. There are two main types of endocytosis: phagocytosis ("cell eating") for large particles like bacteria, and pinocytosis ("cell drinking") for fluids and small molecules. This process requires energy and is used by cells to intake essential nutrients, clear away debris, and defend against pathogens.

The main difference between a solid and a liquid is their physical state and the way their particles are arranged. In a solid, the particles are tightly packed together and have a fixed position, which gives the solid a definite shape and volume. Solids are also characterized by their high density, low compressibility, and high thermal conductivity.

In contrast, the particles in a liquid are more loosely packed and can move around each other, which allows the liquid to take the shape of its container. Liquids have a definite volume but no fixed shape, which means they can be poured or spilled. Liquids also have a lower density than solids, are more compressible than solids, and have lower thermal conductivity than solids.

Option b) is incorrect because it describes the properties of a gas, not a liquid.

Option c) is incorrect because solids and liquids have different physical properties.

Option d) is incorrect because it describes the properties of a gas, not a liquid or a solid.