What is the difference between diffusion and active transport?

Diffusion is passive (doesn't need use energy as ATP) where as active transport is active (by hydrolysis of ATP )
Diffusion is down a concentration gradient (from are high conc to low conc) where as active transport goes against concentration gradient (from low conc to high conc)
Molecule can diffuse through the cell membrane (phospholipid bilayer *) where as active transport used carrier proteins in cell membrane for molecules to pass through. *Can explain the meaning of this if your not sure


LM
Answered by Leena M. Biology tutor

2823 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain the formation of an action potential.


Describe the control of the menstrual cycle by the hormones FSH, LH, Oestrogen and Progesterone, in the situation where the person does not become pregnant. You may use a diagram to show how their levels change throughout the cycle.


What is the difference between B-cells and T-cells in the immune system?


Please describe the structure of a plant cell, and illustrate two ways it can communicate with its neighbors.


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning