Diffusion and Osmosis Laboratory Kit - AP Biology Lab 1, 8 Groups

By: The Flinn Staff



What is the difference between diffusion and osmosis? Students explore the processes of diffusion and osmosis using a selectively permeable membrane. Students investigate the relationship between solute size, solute concentration and the passage of water through the membrane. The water potential of potato cells is also determined. Finally, students study the relationship between solute concentration and the passage of water through plant cells (plasmolysis).

Student microscopes, 0.01-g precision balance, potatoes and Elodea or a red onion are required, but not included in the kit.

Materials:

Clear plastic cups, 9-oz.	Iodine solution*
Cover slips	Graduated pipets*
Dextrose (glucose)*	Potato slicer
Dialysis tubing clamps*	Scalpels
Dialysis tubing*	Sodium chloride solution*
Weighing dishes*	Starch*
Glass slides	Sucrose*
Glucose test strips*

*Denotes items included with refill kit