active transport

Definition of active transport

The movement of particles from from a more dilute solution to a more concentrated solution using energy from respiration.

Movement of particles in active transport

Particles move against the concentration gradient - from an area of low concentration to an area of higher concentration

Is energy required?

Yes- energy released by respiration

Examples of active transport

Human:

• Active transport allows sugar molecules to be absorbed from the small intestine when the sugar concentration is higher in the blood than in the small intestine

Plants:

• active transport is used to absorb mineral ions into the root hair cells from more dilute solutions in the soil.