Passive transport

Question 1

Passive Transport - define

Answer 1

Movement of molecules that does not require the use of energy

Question 2

Define dynamic equilibrium

Answer 2

Equal distribution of solute across all membranes

Question 3

Simple diffusion

Answer 3

Simple diffusion is when substances move across the cell membrane without help. Small, uncharged polar molecules or small non-polar molecules can pass through easily.

Question 4

Facilitated diffusion

Answer 4

Facilitated diffusion happens when simple diffusion is too slow or when the cell needs ions and large polar molecules. This process uses transport proteins (channel and carrier proteins) to help these molecules move across the membrane.

Question 5

Channel Proteins

Answer 5

Provide a hydrophilic pathway that allows water and ions
(e.g., Na+, K+, Ca+, Cl-) to pass through the membrane. Ion channels usually open or close based on the voltage difference across the membrane.

Question 6

Carrier proteins

Answer 6

bind to a specific solute and transport it across the lipid bilayer.

Question 7

What is osmosis? Why is it so important in the cell?

Answer 7

Osmosis is the movement of water through a semipermeable membrane from an area with fewer solutes to an area with more solutes. This happens when the membrane blocks certain solutes, so water moves to balance the concentrations on both sides and reach an isotonic state.

Importance in the Cell:
Osmosis is important for keeping cells the right shape, regulating conditions inside the cell, and ensuring cells stay hydrated and can do their jobs effectively.

Question 8

Hypotonic

Answer 8

solution has less solute, and more water
example: Swelling can occur when the body is in a hypotonic state, where there is a lower concentration of solutes outside the cells than inside. This causes water to enter the cells, leading to swelling or edema.

Question 9

Hypertonic

Answer 9

solution has more solute, and less water
example: Dehydration occurs when the body is in a hypertonic state, meaning there is a higher concentration of solutes outside the cells than inside. This causes water to leave the cells, leading to dehydration.

Question 10

Isotonic

Answer 10

equal solute, equal water
example: When a red blood cell is in an isotonic solution, like normal saline, the concentration of solutes inside and outside the cell is the same. This balance keeps the cell happy and healthy.