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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes active transport across a cell membrane?
A
Movement of molecules from an area of low concentration to an area of high concentration using energy (ATP)
B
Facilitated diffusion of ions through channel proteins
C
Diffusion of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane
D
Movement of molecules from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration without energy input
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the concept of active transport. Active transport is a process where molecules move across a cell membrane from an area of low concentration to an area of high concentration, which is against the concentration gradient. This process requires energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
Step 2: Compare active transport with other types of transport. Facilitated diffusion and simple diffusion do not require energy and involve the movement of molecules down their concentration gradient (from high to low concentration). Osmosis is a specific type of diffusion involving water molecules moving through a selectively permeable membrane.
Step 3: Analyze the options provided. Identify which option describes the movement of molecules against the concentration gradient and requires energy input, as this is the hallmark of active transport.
Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options. Facilitated diffusion of ions through channel proteins and the movement of molecules from high to low concentration without energy input describe passive transport processes, not active transport. Similarly, the diffusion of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane describes osmosis, not active transport.
Step 5: Select the correct answer. The option that describes the movement of molecules from an area of low concentration to an area of high concentration using energy (ATP) is the correct description of active transport.