What occurs during osmosis?

Osmosis is defined as the movement of water across a semipermeable membrane. This process specifically involves the movement of water from an area where there is a lower concentration of solutes (or, conversely, a higher concentration of water) to an area where there is a higher concentration of solutes (or a lower concentration of water). Therefore, option B accurately describes this phenomenon, as it highlights that water moves in response to the concentration gradient of solutes.

This movement occurs to achieve equilibrium, balancing solute concentrations on both sides of the membrane. Understanding osmosis is crucial since it plays a vital role in various physiological processes, including nutrient absorption, waste removal, and the maintenance of cell turgor in plants.

The other options do not correctly capture the definition of osmosis. Movement of solutes alone, or a description suggesting equal movement of water and solutes does not align with the basic principles of osmosis. The focus is solely on the behavior of water with respect to solute concentrations, underscoring the importance of water in maintaining homeostasis.