Question

Differentiate between active transport and diffusion.

Answer 1

Definition

1. Active transport is a type of transport that takes place from a region of low concentration towards a higher concentration.
2. Diffusion is a type of transport occurring from a region of high concentration of any substance to a region of low concentration.

Differences

S. No	Characteristics	Active Transport	Diffusion
1	Nature	It is a fast process and hence takes less time.	It is a slow process and, therefore, takes more time.
2	Movement	The movement of materials takes place through cellular membrane from lower concentration to higher concentration.	The movement of materials takes place through cellular membrane from higher concentration to lower concentration.
3	Direction	It takes place in only one direction.	It can take place in both directions.
4	ATP	It uses energy in the form of ATP.	It does not use energy.
5	Accumulation of materials	It leads to accumulation of materials in the cell.	It does not lead to accumulation of any material in the cell.
6	Requirement	It requires carrier proteins.	It does not require the help of carrier proteins.
7	Permeability	It allows selective uptake of materials.	It allows all materials to pass through the membrane.