Why would the simple diffusion of chloride ions across a cell membrane be extremely slow?

There are differnet ways that substances can move across a cell surface; simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, osmosis or active transport. Most substances can move across the cell membrane via simple diffusion providing they are small and non-polar. However, chloride ions are charged negatively and so they can't cross the membrane down the concentration gradient without any help. This is because polar molecules are water soluble and the centre of the bilayer is hydrophobic. Therefore, they move via facilitated diffusion using carrier proteins.

Answered by Jess B. Biology tutor

33849 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the Benedict's test for reducing sugars and how this can be modified to test for non-reducing sugars


In DNA, if you know the percentage of a base on 1 strand, how do you work out the bases on the opposite strand?


How are coenzymes used in the process of aerobic respiration?


How does a heart beat happen?


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