Facilitated diffusion is considered active transport.Group of answer choicesTrueFalse

Facilitated diffusion is actually a form of passive transport, not active transport.

Explanation

1. Definitions:

   • Facilitated Diffusion: This process involves the movement of molecules across a cell membrane through protein channels. It does not require energy because it moves substances along their concentration gradient (from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration).
   • Active Transport: In contrast, active transport requires energy (usually from ATP) to move substances against their concentration gradient (from an area of lower concentration to an area of higher concentration).

2. Mechanism: Facilitated diffusion allows for the transport of substances that are not able to pass easily through the lipid bilayer of cell membranes, such as ions or polar molecules. Carrier proteins or channel proteins in the membrane aid this process, but no energy input is required since it relies on the natural tendency of molecules to move from high to low concentration until equilibrium is reached.

Based on the definitions and characteristics of these processes, the statement that facilitated diffusion is considered active transport is False.