No guesses or incorrect answers what characteristic makes osmosis different from diffusion? osmosis occurs through a semipermeable membrane. diffusion occurs through a permeable membrane. net movement in osmosis is from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration. net movement in diffusion occurs from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration. osmosis requires facilitation by an energy carrying module, such as atp. diffusion requires no additional energy to move molecules across the concentration gradient. osmosis is used for gases, such as oxygen and carbon dioxide. diffusion is used for water that contains salt or sugar molecules.