🧬ap biology review

Osmotic balance

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Osmotic balance refers to the equilibrium of water and solute concentrations across a cell membrane, allowing for proper cell function. It ensures that the internal environment of an organism remains stable despite changes in external conditions.