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

2771 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the risk of a child inheriting haemophilia A, when both parents are unaffected, but the mothers father suffered from the condition?


Can you name the 3 different energy systems and give an example when each would be used?


Describe the process of DNA replication


How would you test a seed for lipids?


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