Unit 3 Movement in and out of cells

3.1 Diffusion

Diffusion is the movement of particles from a region of high concentration to

a region of lower concentration. The two different concentrations set up a
concentration gradient. Particles move down the concentration gradient.
Think of a stone rolling from the top of a hill to the bottom.
Diffusion does not require energy – it is passive transport.

Diffusion is important in life process. Gas exchange takes place by

diffusion and so does the absorption of digested food molecules fro the
intestines into the bloodstream.

3.2 Osmosis

Osmosis is a special diffusion – the diffusion of free water molecules

across a semi-permeable membrane from an area of high
concentration to an area of lower concentration. In the image here
note that more water molecules move across the membrane to the
sucrose solution than those in the opposite direction.

Osmosis is passive transport – does not require energy.

3.3 Osmosis in plant and animal cells

3.4 Active transport

This process requires energy [from the cell] and also needs special membrane proteins called
carrier proteins that transport particles. Active transport takes place from low to high concentration
because energy is provided.

Active transport in used for uptake of ions into the roots of plants. It is important for moving
sodium and potassium ions across membranes of nerve cells.

Notes compiled by Aurora Mboya Images may be copyrighted