# Describe the process of reverse osmosis and explain why this method of producing potable water is not widely used in the United Kingdom.

> Eduqas GCSE Chemistry — C10 Using resources · Describe and Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Reverse osmosis involves passing water through a partially permeable membrane (under pressure)
2. The membrane removes dissolved salts/ions/minerals, producing fresh/pure water
3. The process requires a large amount of energy
4. The UK has sufficient rainfall / freshwater sources so there is no need for such an expensive/energy-demanding process

## Key terms

- [reverse osmosis](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/reverse-osmosis)
- [potable water](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/potable-water)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Chemistry](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe and Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

---
Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/describe-the-process-of-reverse-osmosis-5e762a63) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.