Question

What are the 2 types of passive transport?

Answer 1

Passive transport:

1. Passive transport is the transfer of a solute, ions, or molecules from one side of the cell membrane that has a high electrochemical potential to the other side, which has a lower electrochemical potential.
2. A substance diffuses over a membrane by passive transport as it diffuses along its concentration gradient without requiring any energy from the cell.
3. The two types of passive transport are : Simple diffusion and facilitated diffusion .

Simple Diffusion:

1. Simple diffusion is the method by which solutes are transferred from higher regions to lower regions through a semipermeable membrane or along a concentration gradient in a solution.
2. Simple diffusion is a form of diffusion that does not require the assistance of membrane proteins that will help substances to move downhill.
3. Example of simple diffusion: passive transport of small non-polar molecules across the plasma membrane.

Facilitated Diffusion:

1. A type of passive transport where molecules diffuse with assistance from membrane proteins.
2. It is a selective process, which means only specific molecules and ions may flow through the membrane.
3. However, it blocks the passage of other molecules across the membrane.
4. Membrane proteins like channels and carriers help chemicals diffuse across the plasma membrane.
5. Example of facilitated diffusion: passive transport of glucose and ions into and out of the cell.