Could you explain the difference between passive diffusion and facilitated transport?

Passive diffusion occurs without any transmembrane proteins being involved, the molecules cross the lipid bilayer following a concentration gradient (from the highest concentration to the lowest). Small uncharged molecules or hydrophobic ones cross this way (the best example is H2O).

Facilitated transport also involves a concentration gradient, however in this case the molecules cross the cell membrane through specific transmembrane proteins. These facilitate their passage, they are channels for the molecules (e.g. ions, glucose...).

Answered by Eleonore W. Biology tutor

2410 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the process of synaptic transmission at the neuromuscular junction.


What are the differences between DNA and RNA?


How are enzymes involved in the process of DNA replication?


What did the Meselson and Stahl experiment show?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences