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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a correct difference between active transport and facilitated diffusion?
A
Active transport involves transport proteins, and facilitated diffusion does not.
B
Facilitated diffusion can move solutes against a concentration gradient, and active transport cannot.
C
Facilitated diffusion requires carrier proteins, but active transport requires channel proteins.
D
Facilitated diffusion involves transport proteins, and active transport does not.
E
Active transport requires an input of energy, and facilitated diffusion does not.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the basic definitions of active transport and facilitated diffusion. Active transport is the movement of molecules across a cell membrane from a region of lower concentration to a region of higher concentration, requiring energy input, usually in the form of ATP. Facilitated diffusion, on the other hand, is the passive movement of molecules along the concentration gradient, aided by transport proteins, without the need for energy.
Identify the role of transport proteins in both processes. Facilitated diffusion involves transport proteins such as carrier proteins or channel proteins that help move substances across the cell membrane. Active transport also involves transport proteins but requires energy to move substances against the concentration gradient.
Consider the energy requirements of each process. Active transport requires energy because it moves substances against their concentration gradient, which is energetically unfavorable. Facilitated diffusion does not require energy because it moves substances down their concentration gradient, which is energetically favorable.
Evaluate the direction of movement relative to the concentration gradient. Facilitated diffusion moves substances from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, while active transport moves substances from an area of lower concentration to an area of higher concentration.
Conclude by comparing the processes based on energy input. The correct difference between active transport and facilitated diffusion is that active transport requires an input of energy, while facilitated diffusion does not.