facilitated diffusion
facilitated diffusion The transport of molecules across the plasma membrane of a living cell by a process that involves a specific transmembrane carrier (see transport protein) located within the plasma membrane but does not require expenditure of energy by the cell. The carrier combines with a molecule at one face of the membrane, then changes shape so the molecule is moved through the membrane and released at the opposite face. It enables the diffusion through the membrane of molecules that otherwise could not pass through. Compare active transport.
facilitated diffusion
facilitated diffusion A carrier-mediated membrane-transport mechanism, driven by a diffusion gradient, that is important in the transport of materials into and out of cells.
More From encyclopedia.com
Sodium Pump , sodium pump A mechanism by which sodium ions are transported out of a eukaryotic cell across the plasma membrane. The process requires energy in the… Transport , Transport is the controlled movement of substances from one part of a cell to another, or from one side of a cell membrane to the other. Because each… Active Transport , Active transport is the movement of molecules up their concentration gradient , using energy.
Concentration Gradients
The concentration of most molec… Transport Protein , There are two different types of transport proteins: those that carry molecules to "distant" locations (within a cell or an organism), and those that… LIPOPROTEINS , lipoprotein One of a group of compounds consisting of a lipid combined with a protein. Lipoproteins are the main structural materials of the membrane… Transfer Cell , Skip to main content
transfer cell
transfer cell A type of plant cell specialized for the short-distance high-volume transport of materials. Transfer…
About this article
facilitated diffusion
All Sources -
You Might Also Like
NEARBY TERMS
facilitated diffusion