Difference Between Active and Passive Transport | NEET

Active and Passive Transport – Clear and Simple Explanation

Cells move substances across their membranes using two methods—active transport and passive transport. Both methods help cells to absorb essential nutrients and maintain their internal environment. Understanding these differences is crucial for grasping how cells function effectively.

Active Transport

Active transport is when cells use energy (ATP) to move molecules from an area of lower concentration to an area of higher concentration. This movement is often against a gradient and helps cells obtain nutrients essential for survival.

Passive Transport

Passive transport involves moving substances across a cell membrane without using energy. Molecules move naturally from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration until equilibrium is reached.

Table of Differences – Active vs Passive Transport

Feature	Active Transport	Passive Transport
Definition	Movement of molecules using energy (ATP)	Movement without energy (ATP)
Direction	Low to high concentration	High to low concentration
Energy Requirement	Requires energy	Does not require energy
Carrier Proteins	Required	Not always required
Examples	Sodium-potassium pump	Osmosis, diffusion
Rate of Transport	Faster, controlled	Generally slower, dependent on gradient
Occurrence	Only living cells	Living and non-living systems
Purpose	Nutrient uptake, nerve impulse conduction	Equilibrium and gas exchange
Molecule Movement	Often ions, nutrients	Gases, water, small molecules
Effect on Gradient	Maintains and creates a gradient	Balances gradient, reaches equilibrium

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FAQs on Difference Between Active and Passive Transport | NEET

1. What is the primary difference between active and passive transport?

Active transport needs energy to move substances, while passive transport does not.

2. Is osmosis active or passive transport?

Osmosis is passive transport because it involves water moving without using energy.

3. Which type of transport requires ATP energy?

Active transport requires ATP energy.

4. Does diffusion use energy?

No, diffusion is passive and does not use energy.

5. What type of transport is used by plants to absorb water?

Plants absorb water by osmosis, which is passive transport.

6. Why do cells use active transport even though it requires energy?

Cells use active transport to absorb essential substances that cannot enter the cell naturally because of the concentration gradient.

7. Can passive transport move substances against their concentration gradient?

No, passive transport moves substances along the concentration gradient only.

8. Give an example of facilitated diffusion.

Glucose entering cells through carrier proteins is an example of facilitated diffusion.

9. Is active transport found only in animals?

No, active transport occurs in all living cells, including plants, animals, and bacteria.

10. Can passive transport occur without a cell membrane?

Yes, diffusion can occur without a membrane, but osmosis and facilitated diffusion require a membrane.