What is the process by which water moves from high concentration to low concentration through a permeable membrane?

The process that involves the movement of water from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration through a permeable membrane is known as osmosis. This process specifically refers to the movement of water molecules across a semipermeable membrane, allowing water to balance concentrations of solute on both sides of the membrane.

Osmosis is a critical biological process, as it regulates the water content in cells and maintains homeostasis. It is vital for various functions in living organisms, including nutrient absorption and waste removal. In plants, osmosis helps with the uptake of water from the soil, which is essential for hydration and nutrient transport throughout the plant.

Other processes mentioned in the options serve different roles; diffusion refers to the movement of any type of molecule from high to low concentration and does not specifically apply to water. Evaporation pertains to the transformation of liquid water into vapor and is not related to membrane transport. Filtration is a mechanical or physical process used to separate solids from liquids but does not involve the movement of water through a semipermeable membrane in the context of concentration gradients.