Reverse dialysis

Definition

Reverse dialysis is a process where certain solutes and fluids move from an area of lower concentration to an area of higher concentration, typically through a semi-permeable membrane, using external pressure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Reverse dialysis is the opposite of natural osmosis, which moves solutes from high to low concentration.
2. External pressure is required to facilitate the movement in reverse dialysis.
3. It is commonly used in medical treatments like hemodialysis to remove waste products from the blood.
4. The efficiency of reverse dialysis depends on factors like membrane permeability and applied pressure.
5. Reverse dialysis can be explained by principles of fluid dynamics and molecular transport phenomena.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes reverse dialysis from natural osmosis?
• Why is external pressure necessary for reverse dialysis?
• How does membrane permeability affect the efficiency of reverse dialysis?

Related terms

Osmosis: The movement of water molecules through a semi-permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to one of higher solute concentration.

Diffusion: \text{The passive spread of particles from regions of higher concentration to regions of lower concentration.}

\text{Hemodialysis}: \text{A medical procedure that uses diffusion and filtration across a semi-permeable membrane to remove waste products from blood.}