Active Transport and Cell Membrane Dynamics Study Guide

Active Transport

Movement of molecules against concentration gradient, requires energy.

Passive Transport

Movement from high to low concentration without energy.

Energy Source

ATP is the primary energy currency for active transport.

Protein Pumps

Integral proteins that transport ions against concentration gradient.

Sodium-Potassium Pump

Transports sodium out and potassium into cells, crucial for function.

Endocytosis

Process of engulfing materials into the cell using vesicles.

Phagocytosis

Type of endocytosis; 'cell eating' of solid particles.

Pinocytosis

Type of endocytosis; 'cell drinking' of liquids.

Exocytosis

Expulsion of materials from the cell via vesicle fusion.

Concentration Gradient

Difference in concentration across a membrane, drives movement.

Nerve Signaling

Rapid ion concentration changes trigger action potentials.

ATP

Adenosine triphosphate, energy molecule for cellular processes.

Vesicles

Membrane-bound sacs that transport materials within cells.

Cell Membrane

Barrier that regulates entry and exit of substances.

Macromolecules

Large molecules like carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids.

Disaccharide

Two monosaccharides linked together, e.g., sucrose.

Sucrose

A disaccharide composed of glucose and fructose.

Ion Concentrations

Levels of ions that are critical for cellular functions.

Cellular Functions

Processes essential for maintaining life and homeostasis.

Energy Requirement

Active transport requires energy to move substances.

Natural Flow

Movement direction of substances without energy input.

Molecular Movement

Transport of molecules across membranes influenced by gradients.

Integral Membrane Proteins

Proteins embedded in cell membranes, facilitating transport.

Cellular Uptake

Process of cells absorbing nutrients and materials.

Gradient

Difference in concentration across a membrane.

Sucrose Transport

Movement of sucrose facilitated by gradients.

Pump

Transport mechanism moving substances against gradients.

Potassium Ion

Ion actively transported in nerve cells.

Sodium Ion

Ion actively transported opposite potassium in nerves.

Nerve Signal

Electrical signal triggered by ion movement.

Pain Response

Nerve signals indicate damage or discomfort.

Pincocytosis

Endocytosis of liquids into a cell.

Vesicle

Membrane-bound sac transporting materials within cells.

Cytoskeleton

Cell structure aiding vesicle movement.

Signal to Brain

Nerve response indicating external stimuli.

Ion Movement

Flow of ions down their concentration gradients.

Cell Membrane Fusion

Process allowing vesicles to merge with membranes.

Waste Removal

Exocytosis used to expel cellular waste.

Nutrient Uptake

Endocytosis allows cells to absorb nutrients.

High to Low Transport

Movement of substances without energy input.

Low to High Transport

Movement requiring energy to transport substances.