How is active transport different from simple diffusion and facilitated diffusion?
Answer (3)
So diffusion is a form of passive transport, right, so the particles are moving with the concentration gradient from a region higher density to a region of lower density. This happens naturally as an effect of molecules colliding, so they do not require the cell to make an effort and use up energy. Active transport requires the cell to use energy, because in active transport the particles are moving from a region of lower density to one of higher density, against the concentration gradient, this is not natural so the cell needs to make an effort and use energy if it wants the particles to pass through its membrane.
Active transport is the movement of molecules across a cell membrane that requires energy. Simple diffusion is the passive movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration without the need for energy. Facilitated diffusion is a passive process that requires the assistance of transport proteins. ;
Active transport requires energy to move substances against their concentration gradient, while simple diffusion and facilitated diffusion are passive processes that move substances down their concentration gradients without energy. Simple diffusion is suitable for small molecules, whereas facilitated diffusion uses specific channels or carriers for larger or charged molecules. Overall, active transport is essential for maintaining cellular concentrations of various ions and molecules.
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