RATE OF DIFFUSION ACROSS THE MEMBRANE

==Factors affecting the rate of diffusion across a cell membrane:== [image:http://i.imgur.com/mvY3Yk9.png?2] '''Membrane Thickness:''' For Nutrients to diffuse into a cell they must traverse the cell membrane. Cell membranes are extremely thin to allow for the diffusion of materials across the cell membrane. [image:http://i.imgur.com/9P57cbN.png?1] '''Temperature and Pressure:''' As with any chemical reaction, increasing the temperature or pressure increases the kinetic energy of the particles, thus increasing the rate of diffusion. [image:http://i.imgur.com/nipSp8n.png?1] '''Concentration Gradient:''' The greater the concentration gradient (the difference in concentration either side of the membrane) the greater the rate of diffusion. [image:http://i.imgur.com/5797hyO.png?1] '''Surface Area:''' The larger the area over which diffusion can occur, the greater the rate of diffusion.