Humber Admissions Practice Test

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What defines passive transport across a cell membrane?

The use of energy by the cell
The movement from low concentration to high concentration
The movement of substances without energy from high to low concentration
Transport that requires cellular structures

The correct answer is: The movement of substances without energy from high to low concentration

Passive transport across a cell membrane is defined by the movement of substances along their concentration gradient, which means from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration, without the expenditure of energy. This process occurs naturally due to the kinetic energy of molecules, allowing them to spread out until equilibrium is reached. In passive transport, since it relies on concentration gradients, it does not require any specific cellular structures or mechanisms, and it does not use energy, distinguishing it from active transport processes, which do require energy input to move substances against their concentration gradient. Understanding this principle is fundamental for grasping how nutrients, ions, and other necessary substances enter and exit cells efficiently, maintaining homeostasis without the cost of energy.