SB1. Key concepts in Biology - Active Transport

Question 1

What is active transport?

Answer 1

Is a process that is required to move molecules against a concentration gradient. Substances have to be moved from a low to a high concentration. The process requires energy.

Question 2

Where does the energy required for active transport come from?

Answer 2

Respiration

Question 3

Give an example of where plants use active transport.

Answer 3

For plants to take up mineral ions, ions are moved into root hairs, where they are in a higher concentration than in the dilute solutions in the soil. Active transport then occurs to allow the plant to take the nutrients it needs for the soil around it.

Question 4

Give an example in animals where active transport is needed.

Answer 4

In animals, glucose molecules have to be moved across the gut wall into the blood. There will be times when glucose concentration in the intestine will be lower than in the intestinal cells and blood. When this is the case, movement of glucose involves active transport. The process requires energy produced by respiration.