How are different substances transported across the cell membrane?

There are several different ways substances can be transported:

1) simple diffusion, i.e. substances that tend to be lipid soluble/ non-polar and can pass easily across the phospholipid bilyar of cells.                                                                                                                                                                   2) facilitated diffusion, which involves ihe roles of carrier proteins and channel proteins. E.g. oxygen and glucose       3) osmosis ( water is transported from an area of higher water potential to a lower water potential across a membrane.                                                                                                                                                                       4) active transport- involves the transport of substances against a concentration gradient and uses carrier proteins and ATP hydrolysis is required. An example of this is a sodium-potassium pump after an action potential.                     5) co-transport- this is when substances are simultaneously transported across a membrane by one protein e.g. the absorption of sodium ions and glucose by cells lining the mammalian ileum. 

Answered by Vinay S. Biology tutor

6619 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What are the distinguishing features of a mammal compared to other classes of animals?


In 2012, two scientists were awarded the Nobel prize for their research on stem cells. They showed that adult cells could be reprogrammed to become cells with the properties of embryonic stem cells. Describe the possible benefits of this research.


Why do different blood vessels have different lumen sizes (relative to their overall size)?


How do organisms obtain energy?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy