What is the difference between facilitated diffusion and active transport?

When moving across a selectively permeable membrane, ions, polar and large molecules cannot dissolve easily in the lipid membrabe. Instead, transport must occor by way of protiens that act as carriers or channels to allow such molecules to cross. There are two types of facilitated transport;1) Facilitated diffusionSubstances move down the concentration gradient from high to low. Includes protiens such as ion channel that provide a water filled pore for our hydrophillic ions or carriers for larger molecules such as glucose. Examples:-Channels: The sodium channel transports Na+- Carriers: The GLUT transporters transport glucose2) Active transportSubstances are transported against the concentration gradient from low to high. Protiens act as carriers that use energy from ATP directly (primary transport) or indirectly (co-transport via other ion gradients) to power transport.- Primary: The Na+/K+ ATPase transports 2 potassium and 3 sodium in opposite direcxtions- Secondary: the SLGT transports glucose against concentration gradient using energy released when sodium move down concentration gradient.

SG
Answered by Shannon G. Biology tutor

45772 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is osmosis and where does it occur in the human body?


What is meant by diffusion?


What is an amino acid?


In terms of pressure and volume, explain the changes that take place in the chest to allow ventilation to occur.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning