Cell Transport

Overview

Cell transport refers to the movement of substances across the cell membrane. It is essential for cell function and survival.

Categories of Cell Transport

There are two main categories of cell transport:

1. Passive Transport

• Definition: Movement of particles without the input of energy.
• Direction: Particles move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.
• Example:
  • Diffusion: A passive process where particles naturally flow down their concentration gradient (high to low concentration) without energy use by the cell.

2. Active Transport

• Definition: Movement of particles that requires energy, usually in the form of ATP.
• Direction: Particles move from an area of lower concentration to an area of higher concentration, against the concentration gradient.
• Mechanism: Often involves protein pumps in the cell membrane to facilitate movement.
• Example:
  • Heart Muscle Cells: For cardiac muscle cells to function and the heart to beat, certain molecules must be transported from low to high concentration using energy.

Key Points

• Passive transport is automatic and energy-free.
• Active transport requires energy and is necessary for specific cellular functions such as cardiac muscle contraction.

Remember, understanding how substances move via cell transport is crucial for comprehending how cells maintain homeostasis and respond to their environment.