COMPUTER-SIMULATION OF OSMOSIS AND REVERSE-OSMOSIS IN SOLUTIONS

Computer simulation studies using the method of molecular dynamics have been carried out to investigate osmosis and reverse osmosis in solutions separated by semi-permeable membranes. Our results show both osmosis and reverse osmosis, as well as a smooth transition between the two when either the solution concentration is changed, or the density (pressure) difference between the solvent and solution compartments is varied. We believe this new method can be used to improve our understanding of these two important phenomena at the molecular level.