An example of the use of the idea of the partition function in a very simple way is provided by the osmotic pressure. Here one considers a vessel partitioned into two regions, say, I and II, with a so...An example of the use of the idea of the partition function in a very simple way is provided by the osmotic pressure. Here one considers a vessel partitioned into two regions, say, I and II, with a solvent on one side and a solution of the solvent plus a solute on the other side. The separation is via a semipermeable membrane which allows the solvent molecules to pass through either way, but does not allow the solute molecules to pass through. Thus the solute molecules stay in region II.
Osmosis will be to the right, since water is less concentrated there. (b) The fluid level rises until the back pressure ρgh equals the relative osmotic pressure; then, the net transfer of wate...Osmosis will be to the right, since water is less concentrated there. (b) The fluid level rises until the back pressure ρgh equals the relative osmotic pressure; then, the net transfer of water is zero. The study of active transport carries us into the realms of microbiology, biophysics, and biochemistry and it is a fascinating application of the laws of nature to living structures.
