distinguish between diffusion and equilibrium?

Answer 1

equilibrium can be described as 2 things. Either an equal concentration on both sides of the plasma membrane, or equal movement of concentration moving back and forth across the plasma membrane. Diffusion is the process of equalling the concentration gradiant between 2 sides of the plasma membrane. For example if one side has a 8% solute concentration and the other has a 4% soulte concentration, the membrane will diffusion in order to create an equilibrium having both sides of the membrane with a 6% solute concentration.

Answer 2

Diffusion is the random movement of particles from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. Equilibrium occurs when the movement results in a balance. Of course, just because two substances may be at equilibrium, diffusion is still occuring, just with no change in concentration. Diffusion is a process, equilibrium is a state.

Answer 3

Diffusion is the mixing that occurs between two different gases or liquids (or even solids, though on a much longer timescale) due to the movements of individual atoms.
Examples: Carbon dioxide in air.

Equilibrium means a system is not changing in any way. In the context of diffusion, this would mean that the gas or liquid (or possibly solid) has completely diffused, and is now spread evenly throughout the other material. Once this state is reached, the natural tendency is to for it to stay that way, so you would say the system has reached equilibrium.

Answer 4

In diffusion theres a difference in concentration between the two regions (a concentration gradient). In an equilibrium, there is no more gradient because all the particles spread out evenly. Theres still movement, but no NET movement.

Answer 5

Diffusion spread wandering and equilibrium is balance self-possession.