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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the main difference between passive and active transport across a cell membrane?
A
Passive transport does not require cellular energy, while active transport requires energy in the form of ATP.
B
Active transport only occurs in plant cells, while passive transport occurs in all cell types.
C
Both passive and active transport require the use of carrier proteins and ATP.
D
Passive transport moves substances against their concentration gradient, while active transport moves substances down their concentration gradient.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the definitions of passive and active transport. Passive transport is the movement of substances across a cell membrane without the use of cellular energy, relying on the concentration gradient. Active transport, on the other hand, requires energy in the form of ATP to move substances against their concentration gradient.
Step 2: Analyze the options provided in the problem. The first option states that passive transport does not require energy, while active transport requires ATP. This aligns with the definitions of passive and active transport.
Step 3: Evaluate the second option. It claims that active transport only occurs in plant cells, while passive transport occurs in all cell types. This is incorrect because active transport occurs in all cell types, not just plant cells.
Step 4: Examine the third option. It suggests that both passive and active transport require carrier proteins and ATP. This is incorrect because passive transport does not require ATP, and not all passive transport mechanisms involve carrier proteins (e.g., simple diffusion).
Step 5: Assess the fourth option. It states that passive transport moves substances against their concentration gradient, while active transport moves substances down their concentration gradient. This is incorrect because passive transport moves substances down their concentration gradient, while active transport moves substances against their concentration gradient.