Study Notes
Active transport is the movement of particles through a cell membrane from a region of lower concentration to a region of higher concentration using energy from respiration.
- Active Transport — movement of particles against a concentration gradient using energy. Example: Uptake of glucose by epithelial cells in the small intestine.
- Carrier Proteins — proteins that transport substances across a cell membrane using energy. Example: Carrier proteins in root hair cells moving ions from soil into the plant.
- Concentration Gradient — difference in concentration of a substance across a space. Example: Higher concentration of ions inside root hair cells than in the soil.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Active Transport
- Carrier Proteins
- Concentration Gradient
Common Confusions
- Confusing active transport with passive transport, which does not require energy.
- Thinking that all transport processes require energy.
Typical Exam Questions
- What is active transport? Movement of particles against a concentration gradient using energy.
- How do carrier proteins function in active transport? They use energy to move substances across the cell membrane.
- Why is active transport important in plants? It allows plants to absorb essential nutrients and minerals from the soil.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of how energy is used in active transport.
- Examples of active transport in biological systems.