Lab Reports on Osmosis and Diffusion

By

Annetta Assanah

1046660

University Of Guyana

Dept. Curriculum and Instruction

ESC3204 - Teaching of Science at the Early Childhood & Primary Level II - Group 1 (2 Credits)
Lecturer Name: Mrs. Reshana La Rose

Due Date: 6th May 6, 2024

 Laboratory Report
Title: The Osmotic Effect of Sugar on Potato Cells

Abstract:
This experiment investigates the osmotic process in potato cells by placing sugar into two halved
scooped potatoes placed to sit in glass bowl of 30 ml of water. Two potato halves were hollowed
out to form cups and filled with sugar, then observed in thirty minutes intervals, over 90 minutes
to assess changes indicative of osmosis. Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a
semipermeable membrane from an area of high solute concentration. The experiment
demonstrated osmotic movement, which changes in the appearance and texture of the potato
halves occurring gradually over time.

Introduction:
Osmosis is a fundamental process in biological systems, involving the movement of eater
molecules across semipermeable membranes. In this experiment, potato halves were used as a
model system to observe osmosis. By creating semipermeable membranes through half scooping,
the movement of water molecules in response to sugar concentration gradients could be
visualized over time intervals.

Materials needed:
- 1 medium Irish potato
- 30g (2 tbs) brown sugar
- 1 knife
- 1 petri dish/ small transparent glass bowl (the potato fit loosely)
- Measuring cylinder
- Distilled water
-cutting board

Method:

1. Peel the potato and cut it in half lengthwise using a knife and cutting board.
2. Scoop out the centers of the two halves to create semipermeable membranes.
3. Fill one half of the scooped potato with two tbs of brown sugar and leave the other half
empty. Ensure the bottom of the potato is flat so that it can sit flat in the tray.
4. Place the two potato halves in a transparent glass bowl filled with 10 ml of water.
5. Ensure the water level is below the top surface of the potato halves.
6. Set a timer to observe the potato halves at thirty minutes intervals.
7. At each interval, carefully remove the potato halves from the tray and observe any
changes in appearance and texture.
8. Record observations at each time interval.
9. After a two-hour period, conclude the experiment.

Results:
These were the potatoes when first placed in the transparent glass bowl.

Potato A Potato B

1st 30 Minutes: The sugar lined against the walls of the potato became saturated.
The potato without the sugar became slightly discoloured.

Potato A Potato B
 2nd 30 Minutes:

The sugar is totally submerged in water in Potato A. Potato B is even more discoloration
but has no water
.

Potato A Potato B

3rd 30 Minutes:
In addition to the sugar being submerged in liquid, in Potato A, there appears to be
bubbles forming from the corners in Potato A. Potato B has shown some more
discolouration, but no saturation of water.

After approximately 2 hours, the potato half with the sugar displayed signs of osmosis, as
indicated by changes in appearance and texture of the sugar.
The potato half without the sugar showed minimal changes

Time(min) Potato with Sugar (Observation) Potato without Sugar(Observation)

0 Potato filled with sugar Empty potato cup

The sugar lined against the walls of Potato cup remained empty. The potato
the potato became saturated with without the sugar became slightly discoloured.
30
water while the idle remained the
same.
The sugar appears to be partially
Potato cup remains empty. The potato is even
60 dissolved in water with a slight
more discoloured.
increase in volume.

In addition to the sugar being

submerged in liquid, in the potato,
The potato cup remained empty, and
90 there appears to be bubbles forming
discoloured.
from the corners in the potato. The
volume remained the same.

Discussion:
The experiment aimed to observe osmosis in potato cells by treating one potatl half with sugar
and leaving the other untreated, then placing them in distilled water. The potato half treated with
sugar experienced an influx of water through osmosis, leading to an increase in volume and mass
over time. Osmosis occurs as water molecules ove from an area of higher concentration( the
distilled water solution) to and area of lower concentration(inside the potato cells), across a
semipermeable membrane. Since the sugar creates a low water potrential inside the potato cells,
water mmoves into the cells, causing them to increase in volume. This change is observable as
the treated ptto half absorbs water and undergoes changes in appearance, demonstrating the
process of osmmosis.
 Conclusion

The experiment successfully demonstrated the process of osmosis in potato cells. The potato half
treated with sugar showed visible changes in volume and mass over time, while the untreated
potato half remained relatively unchanged. These results support the hypothesis that osmosis
occurs in potato cells, with water moving from areas of higher concentration to lower
concentration of solutes.
Title: Investigation of Diffusion in Liquids

Abstract: The experiment aimed to observe the process of diffusion of a soluble substance in
water. The rate of diffusion and the factors affecting it were analyzed by introducing a colored
substance into a transparent tube and observing its dispersion in water. By observing the
movement of the substance over time, the concept of diffusion will be demonstrated.

Introduction:
Diffusion is a fundamental process where particles move from an area of higher concentration to
an area of lower concentration resulting in the equalization of concentration. In this experiment,
we will use a transparent tube to observe the diffusion of a soluble substance in water. The
movement of the substance from the tube into the surrounding water will illustrate the process of
diffusion.
Materials needed:

Soluble substance e.g. (KMNO4, drink mix, solid food

colouring, etc.)

- Tap water (clear) approx. 100mL

- 1 glass tube / transparent drinking straw

- 2 beakers (250mL) / transparent drinking glass

- Spatula

-Timer/stopwatch

Method:

1. Fill the transparent glass with water.

 2. Insert ¼ spatula of food coloring into the transparent drinking straw.
3. Carefully lower the transparent drinking straw into a transparent drinking glass, ensuring
that the tube remains upright, and the substance does not spill into the water.
4. Start the stopwatch/timer and observe the movement of the substance in the transparent
drinking straw and how it spreads into the surrounding water at 10 minutes intrvals.
5. Record your observations of the changes in in concentration and appearance of the
substance int the transparent drinking straw and the surrounding water over time.

Results:
Time(min) Observation
0 Substance introduced
Some red food colouring moved from the
30 transparent drinking straw and dispersed into the
water.
Increased spreading of the food colouring into the
60
water.
The food colouring became more dispersed in the
90
water. The water is almost completely red.
The water is completely diapersed into the water
120
which means the water is completely red.

Discussion:
The experiment aimed to observe the diffusion by placing a soluble substance into a transparent
tube and submerging it in water. As time progressed, the substance gradually spread or diffused
frome an area of higher concentration (inside the tube) to an area of lower concentration( the
surrounding water). This moveent resulted in the equalization of the concentration, with the
substance becoming evenly dispresed throughout the water. Diffusion is a natural process where
particles move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration until there
is an even distribution throughout the medium.
In the experiment, a soluble substance is placed inside a transparent tube, which is then
submerged in water. Over time, the substance begins to spread out into the water.
This movement is due to the random motion of molecules, which is inherent to all particles. They
naturally spread out to occupy the available space.
According to research, this process does not need any external energy (like heat or light) to
occur; it’s driven purely by the random movement of the molecules.
Diffusion ultimately leads to a state of balance, achieving an even distribution of the substance
within the water, eliminating any differences in concentration. The experiment serves as a
tangible demonstration of diffusion’s principles, which are essential to numerous natural and
technological processes.

Conclusion

The experiment successfully demonstrated the process of diffusion using a transparent tube and a
soluble substance in water. By observing the movement of the substance over time, we observed
how molecules naturally spread out from areas of higher concentration to lower concentration,
illustrating the fundamental principle of diffusion.
 References

BD Editors. (2017, April 27). Diffusion. Biology Dictionary.

https://biologydictionary.net/diffusion/

Branks, M. (2023). Raven biology of plants. Www.academia.edu.

https://www.academia.edu/44966632/Raven_Biology_of_Plants

Campbell, N. A., Urry, L. A., Cain, M. L., Wasserman, S. A., & Minorsky, P. V. (2020).

Biology: A global approach, global edition. In Google Books. Pearson Higher Ed.

https://books.google.gy/books/about/Biology_A_Global_Approach_Global_Edition.html

?id=FS7vDwAAQBAJ&redir_esc=y

Chen, V. (2019). Diffusion - introduction (video) | khan academy. Khan Academy.

https://www.khanacademy.org/science/biology/membranes-and-transport/diffusion-and-

osmosis/v/diffusion-video

Powered by NICE CXone Expert. (2018, July 10). 5.6: Passive transport - diffusion. Biology

LibreTexts. https://bio.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Introductory_and_General_Biology/

Book%3A_General_Biology_%28Boundless

%29/05%3A_Structure_and_Function_of_Plasma_Membranes/

5.06%3A_Passive_Transport_-_Diffusion
Title: Examination of Performance-Enhancing Drugs and Their Impact on the Human Nervous
System

Abstract

This research is based on the intricate interplay between performance-enhancing drugs, also
known as (PEDs), and the human nervous system. Primarily, the goal is to explore the science of
these enhancers to comprehensively understand their positive and negative effects on the human
nervous system. By examining stimulant and anabolic steroids we uncover the neurobiological
basis of PED use and its impact on general well-being.
Table of Contents

Contents

Abstract.......................................................................................................................................................11
Hypothesis...................................................................................................................................................13
Background Research................................................................................................................................13
Description of Methods Used to Acquire Information...........................................................................14
Quantitative or Qualitative Findings.......................................................................................................15
Recommendations......................................................................................................................................18
Conclusions.................................................................................................................................................19
References....................................................................................................................................................20
Abstract.........................................................................................................................................................2
Hypothesis.....................................................................................................................................................4
Background Research..................................................................................................................................4
Description of Methods Used to Acquire Information.............................................................................5
Quantitative or Qualitative Findings.........................................................................................................6
Recommendations........................................................................................................................................9
Conclusions.................................................................................................................................................10
References....................................................................................................................................................11
Hypothesis

Hypothesis: The chronic use of performance -enhancing drugs will lead to alterations in
neurotransmitter levels and neural activities, resulting in adverse effects on cognitive function
and mood regulation.

Background Research

According to research, your nervous system is your body’s command center. It is made up of
your brain, spinal cord and nerves. Your nervous system works by sending messages, or
electrical signals, between your brain and all the other parts of your body. These signals tell you
to breathe, move, speak and see, for example. Your nervous system keeps track of what is going
on inside and outside of your body and decides how to respond to any situation you are in. Our
nervous system regulates complicated processes like thoughts and memory. It also plays an
essential role in the things your body does without thinking, like blushing, sweating and
blinking. The main function, however, is to send messages from various parts of your body to
your brain then from your brain back out to your body to tell your body what to do.

How it works?

Performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) are prevalent and are a controversial perspective of

modern games and competitive endeavors.

These substances, ranging from stimulants to anabolic steroids, are frequently utilized to pick up
a competitive edge or make physical strides in execution over their counterparts.

As such, Stimulants are a class of drugs that increase alertness, focus, and energy levels by
enhancing the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain; Anabolic steroids are artificial versions
of the hormone testosterone, which is found in the body naturally.

As a result, the production of red blood cells increases.

Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the muscles.
The presence of more red blood cells means more oxygen can be utilized by the muscles.

The extra oxygen helps muscles produce more energy.

Description of Methods Used to Acquire Information

Research Questions:

1. What are the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the effects of anabolic steroids and
stimulants on the CNS?
2. How do anabolic steroids and stimulants alter neurotransmitter systems, synaptic function
and neuronal plasticity in the CNS?
3. What are the behavioral and cognitive effects of chronic exposure to anabolic steroids
and stimulants on CNS functioning?
4. What are the potential therapeutic applications and risks associated with the use of
anabolic steroids and stimulants in neurological and psychiatric disorders?

This study has explored other studies that employed a mixed-method approach, combining
studies of both experimental and observational methods to investigate the effects of anabolic
steroids and stimulants on the CNS.

According to various articles, these were the procedures involved in carrying out the case
studies.

In the studies, these were the criteria fulfilled by the participants:

Healthy adult participants (aged 18-40) were recruited from the community via advertisements
and flyers. Participants will undergo screening to ensure they meet eligibility criteria, including
the absence of neurological or psychiatric disorders and no history of substance abuse.

Experimental Groups: participants were randomly assigned to one of four experimental

groups: anabolic steroids only, stimulants only, combined anabolic steroids and stimulants, and
placebo control. Each group will consist of approximately 20 participants.

Drug Administration: Participants in the experimental groups received either anabolic

steroids (e.g., testosterone), stimulants (e.g., amphetamines), or both substances, depending on
their assigned group. Dosages will be administered according to standard clinical guidelines and
adjusted based on participant characteristics (e.g., age, weight).

Outcome Measures: Neurobiological and behavioral outcomes were assessed using a

combination of neuroimaging techniques (e.g., functional magnetic resonance imaging, positron
emission tomography), cognitive assessments (e.g., neuropsychological tests), and self-report
measures (e.g., mood scales). Measures of neurotransmitter levels, synaptic function, and
neuronal activity will be obtained before and after drug administration to evaluate acute and
chronic effects of anabolic steroids and stimulants on CNS functioning.

Ethical Considerations:

This study was conducted by ethical guidelines for human research, including obtaining
informed consent from all participants, ensuring participant confidentiality and privacy, and
minimizing risks associated with drug administration.

Quantitative data were fully analyzed using appropriate statistical methods.

In addition, online databases and academic journals were used to search for peer-reviewed
articles, clinical trials, and meta-analyses related to the use of stimulants and anabolic steroids
and their effect on neural function. Consulting reputable scientific journals, textbooks, and
publications was used to compile data neurobiological effects of stimulants and anabolic steroids
as well as their therapeutic and adverse effects on the nervous system. There is strong evidence
to support the findings in this research vetted by credible sources with valuable up-to-date
information.

Quantitative or Qualitative Findings

Psychopathological Disorders:

It notes that the chronic use of therapeutic drugs to increase physical performance can lead to
serious health-threatening conditions including cognitive decline and late-life dementia.

Doping in Youth: The use of performance-enhancing drugs by children and teenagers has
increased significantly. This is concerning because doping at a young age can cause serious
health-threatening conditions, including infertility, liver and kidney dysfunction, peripheral
edema, cardiac hypertrophy, myocardial ischemia, thrombosis, and cardiovascular disease.

Cognitive Function: Cognitive decline is a central feature impacting the quality of life. Chronic
use can lead to difficulties in concentration, memory, and decision-making.

Addiction and Dependence: Anabolic steroids can be addictive, and users may develop a
compulsive need to seek out and use these drugs. Withdrawal symptoms can occur when use is
reduced or stopped.

Psychosocial Factors:
According to one study, the use of anabolic steroids has psychological, physiological, and social
implications. The study shows aggression, anxiety, hallucination, psychiatric disorders such as
depression, and sexual desires have been linked to the psychological consequences of AAS.

Anabolic steroids can increase muscle mass and physical strength used in sport and
physiologically enhance strength or physique (Kanayama, Hudson, and Pope, 2008).

Anabolic-androgenic steroids are appearance and performance-enhancing drugs (APEDs), most

often used by males to improve appearance by building muscle mass or to enhance athletic
performance.

Murphy (2019) outlined the following psychological implications of steroid use by athletes;
explosive aggressive behavior mood swings, manic behavior, hallucination and delusion
psychological effects due to withdrawal symptoms include depression and apathy anxiety, lack of
concentration, insomnia, anorexia, decreased sex drive, and fatigue.

Studies indicated that anabolic steroids increase irritability and aggression.

Effects on the Nervous System:

1. Enhanced Cognitive Function: Stimulants and caffeine can improve cognitive function,
including attention, memory, and reaction time, by increasing neurotransmitter release and CNS
arousal.
2. Improved Mood and Motivation: Some PEDs, such as anabolic steroids, may induce euphoria,
confidence, and motivation, enhancing athletic performance and perceived well-being.

3. Increased Alertness and Energy: Stimulants and caffeine can increase alertness, energy levels,
and physical performance by stimulating the CNS and promoting wakefulness.

Negative Effects on the Nervous System:

Neurotoxicity: Chronic use of stimulants and anabolic steroids can lead to neurotoxicity,
neuronal damage, and cognitive impairments, including deficits in attention, memory, and
executive function.

Mood Disorders: Prolonged use of PEDs, particularly anabolic steroids, can disrupt
neurotransmitter balance and lead to mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and aggression.

Cardiovascular Effects: Some PEDs, including stimulants and anabolic steroids, increase the risk
of cardiovascular events such as hypertension, arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, and stroke,
posing serious health risks to users.

The neurotransmitter dopamine, which helps to regulate the feelings of pleasure (euphoria and
satisfaction), is both directly and indirectly affected by stimulants (Volkow et al.
Dopamine also plays an important role in the control of movement, cognition, motivation, and
reward (Bromberg-Martin et al.
In addition, stimulant use causes the brain to release norepinephrine, which helps regulate mood,
attention, learning, memory, and arousal and may play a role in substance withdrawal (Office of
the Surgeon General, 2016).
The neurotransmitter serotonin affects reinforcement, motivation, learning, and memory, and
may play a role by making people more susceptible to compulsive (rather than controlled)
substance use, especially people with genetic vulnerabilities(Müller & Homberg, 2015).
Recommendations

To avoid the adverse effects of Stimulants and Anabolic steroids on the CNS the following
recommendations must be adhered to:
Provide comprehensive education and information to individuals about the effects of stimulants
and anabolic steroids on the CNS.
Highlight the potential benefits of these substances.
Emphasize the risks and potential adverse effects of misuse or abuse of stimulants and anabolic
steroids.
Discourage non-medical or recreational use of stimulants and anabolic steroids.
Explore alternative approaches for enhancing CNS function and performance that do not involve
the use of stimulants or anabolic steroids.
Establish systematic monitoring and evaluation procedures to assess the effects of stimulants and
anabolic steroids on CNS function and overall health.
Offer support services and resources for individuals who may be struggling with substance use
disorders or dependence on stimulants and anabolic steroids.
Conclusions

While certain PEDs may enhance cognitive function, mood, and physical performance in the
short term, their long-term use is associated with significant risks to nervous system health,
including neurotoxicity, mood disorders, addiction, and cardiovascular complications.
References
c