Which of the following best describes the process of osmosis?

The process of osmosis is best described by the movement of fluids across a permeable membrane. Osmosis specifically refers to the diffusion of water molecules through a semipermeable membrane, from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration. This movement continues until there is an equal concentration of solute on both sides of the membrane.

This definition is essential in various biological contexts, as it plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis within cells and as part of various physiological processes. Understanding how water moves in relation to solutes helps healthcare professionals, including Patient Care Technicians, better manage patient care, particularly in treatments involving fluids and electrolytes.

The other choices do not accurately represent osmosis: the movement of solutes does not define osmosis, concentration equalization of gases pertains more to the principles of gas laws, and movement of blood cells is a different physiological process not directly related to osmosis.