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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Osmosis and Active Transport?

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Osmosis and active transport are two different processes that involve the movement of molecules across a membrane. Here are the main differences between them:

  • Energy requirement: Osmosis is a passive process that does not require energy, while active transport requires energy in the form of ATP to move substances across the membrane.
  • Concentration gradient: In osmosis, water molecules move from a region of high concentration to a region of low concentration, along the concentration gradient. In contrast, active transport moves substances from a region of low concentration to a region of high concentration, against the concentration gradient.
  • Carrier proteins: Osmosis does not require carrier proteins, whereas active transport might use the assistance of specialized carrier proteins to move substances across the membrane.

In summary, osmosis is a passive process that moves water molecules along the concentration gradient without requiring energy, while active transport is an energy-dependent process that moves substances against their concentration gradient, often with the help of carrier proteins.

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  • What is the Difference Between Osmosis and Active Transport?
  • Comparative Table: Osmosis vs Active Transport

    • Comparative Table: Osmosis vs Active Transport

    Here is a table comparing the differences between osmosis and active transport:

    Feature Osmosis Active Transport
    Direction of Movement Water moves down the concentration gradient (from high to low concentration). Substances move against the concentration gradient (from low to high concentration).
    Energy Requirement Does not require energy. Requires energy, usually in the form of ATP.
    Types of Substances Mainly water molecules. Ions (Na+, Cl-, K+) and larger molecules (glucose, amino acids, vitamins).
    Membrane Type Occurs through semi-permeable membranes. Occurs through membranes, often with the help of carrier proteins.
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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.