What is the Difference Between Active and Passive Diffusion?

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The main difference between active and passive diffusion lies in the energy requirement and the direction of molecule movement. Here are the key differences:

  • Energy Requirement: Active transport requires energy, while passive diffusion does not require energy for the movement of molecules.
  • Direction of Molecule Movement: Active transport moves molecules against the concentration gradient, from a region of lower concentration to a region of higher concentration. In contrast, passive diffusion moves molecules along the concentration gradient, from a region of higher concentration to a region of lower concentration.

There are two main types of active transport: primary and secondary active transport. Examples of passive diffusion include simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, osmosis, and filtration.

In summary, active transport requires energy and moves molecules against the concentration gradient, while passive diffusion does not require energy and moves molecules along the concentration gradient.

Comparative Table: Active vs Passive Diffusion

Active and passive diffusion are two different mechanisms for transporting molecules across cell membranes. Here is a table comparing the differences between the two:

Feature Active Diffusion Passive Diffusion
Energy Requirement Requires energy (ATP) Does not require energy
Direction Against concentration gradient Along concentration gradient
Examples Sodium-potassium pump, exocytosis, endocytosis Osmosis, diffusion, facilitated diffusion
Transport Types Primary and secondary active transport Simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, osmosis, filtration

Active diffusion, also known as active transport, requires energy in the form of ATP to move molecules against their concentration gradient, from a lower concentration to a higher concentration. On the other hand, passive diffusion does not require energy, as molecules move along their concentration gradient, from a higher concentration to a lower concentration.