How do I answer long answer questions on (eg.) diffusion/active transport/osmosis

So, the first thing to look at in long answer questions is the number of marks they're awarding. The next is to read the question a few times over and make sure you really understand what they're asking from you, and maybe highlight the important words if you feel the need. Look at the phrasing of the question: in the example of diffusion/active transport/osmosis, it will be a describe and compare three mechanisms of transport. PLANNING an answer out before writing is really key. Have a clear idea of the key-words that will you show you understand the concepts. For exampleDefine first: Diffusion is the movement of particles from an area of higher concentration to lower, along a concentration gradient, through a semi-permeable membrane. Active transport is the movement of particles AGAINST their concentration gradient (low to high) by using a molecular transporter in a membrane.Osmosis is the movement of water from an area of high water concentration (low solute concentration) to low water concentration (high solute concentration) through a membrane.Compare second: Active transport requires energy released from the hydrolysis of ATP while the other two are passive processes. Osmosis is water movement where-as the others are solute movement. Diffusion is the main process by which nutrients and minerals, glucose and vitamins are absorbed by the body.