active transport

• How does diffusion differ from active transport?

  Diffusion moves substances down their concentration gradient, while active transport moves them against it
• What is diffusion?


  It is the process by which substances move down their concentration gradient from higher to lower concentration
• Why is diffusion considered a passive process?


  Because it does not require any energy from the cell
• What analogy is used to describe diffusion?

  It is compared to water flowing downhill
• What is active transport?

  It is the movement of molecules against their concentration gradient, requiring energy from the cell
• What type of process is active transport?

  It is an active process
• What is required for active transport to occur?

  Energy from cellular respiration
• Where does the energy for active transport come from?

  From cellular respiration in the mitochondria
• What are ATP molecules compared to in the context of energy transfer?

  They are compared to little batteries
• How can we define active transport in a concise manner?

  As the movement of molecules across a cell membrane from lower to higher concentration requiring energy
• Why do plants need to absorb water and mineral ions?


  To survive and carry out essential functions
• What are root hair cells adapted for?

  To absorb water and mineral ions
• How are root hair cells adapted for absorption?

  They have long hair-like protrusions that increase surface area
• What is the concentration gradient of minerals in root hair cells compared to the soil?

  Minerals are at a higher concentration inside the cell than outside in the soil
• Why can't plants absorb minerals by diffusion?

  Because the minerals are at a higher concentration inside the cell
• What is the role of mitochondria in root hair cells?

  They provide the energy needed for active transport
• What are the adaptations of root hair cells for their role in absorption?

  • Long hair-like protrusions for increased surface area
  • High number of mitochondria for energy production