Differences between Active Transport and Passive Transport
Features |
Active Transport |
Passive Transport |
---|---|---|
Energy Requirement |
Requires energy to move molecules against their concentration gradient. |
Does not require energy; molecules move with their concentration gradient. |
Movement of Molecules |
Moves molecules from areas of lower concentration to areas of higher concentration. |
Moves molecules from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration. |
Transport Proteins |
Involves specific transport proteins, such as pumps and carriers, to facilitate movement. |
May involve transport proteins, like channels and carriers, but can also occur directly through the lipid bilayer. |
Saturation |
Exhibits saturation kinetics, where the rate of transport may reach a maximum when transport proteins are fully occupied. |
Follows linear kinetics, as transport is limited by the availability of transport proteins and the concentration gradient. |
Direction of Movement |
Can move molecules against their natural diffusion direction. |
Moves molecules in the direction of their concentration gradient. |
Role in the Cell |
Essential for maintaining ion gradients, nutrient uptake, and various cellular processes. |
Facilitates the passive movement of molecules like gases, water, and small polar compounds. |
Also Read: Transport System in Plants Class 11 Biology
Active Transport
Active transport is a cellular process that uses energy mainly in the form of ATP, to move molecules or ions against their concentration gradients. It includes primary active transport, which directly uses energy for transport, and secondary active transport, which utilizes an electrochemical gradient to move other substances. It is essential for many physiological processes, including nutrient absorption in the digestive system, the transmission of nerve impulses, and the regulation of ion concentrations in cells.
Table of Content
- Active Transport Definition
- Types of Active Transport
- Examples of Active Transport
- Differences between Active Transport and Passive Transport