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Which statement represents a notable difference between simple diffusion and facilitated diffusion?
  • a)
    Unlike simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion can transport ligands against a concentration gradient.
  • b)
    Unlike simple diffusion, the rate of facilitated diffusion is limited by the number of transport proteins in the membrane.
  • c)
    Unlike simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion requires energy in the form of ATP.
  • d)
    Unlike simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion can occur in any type of cell.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?
Verified Answer
Which statement represents a notable difference between simple diffusi...
Simple diffusion and facilitated diffusion are both passive processes that involve the movement of molecules across a membrane from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. However, there are notable differences between the two processes.
In simple diffusion, molecules passively move across the membrane directly through the lipid bilayer without the involvement of any specific proteins. The rate of simple diffusion is influenced by factors such as the concentration gradient, temperature, and molecular size. Simple diffusion does not require transport proteins and is not limited by their availability.
On the other hand, facilitated diffusion involves the movement of molecules across the membrane with the assistance of specific transport proteins, such as channel proteins or carrier proteins. These proteins facilitate the movement of molecules by creating selective channels or by binding to the molecules and undergoing conformational changes. The rate of facilitated diffusion is dependent on the number of available transport proteins in the membrane. If there are limited numbers of transport proteins, the rate of facilitated diffusion can be limited.
Option B correctly states that the rate of facilitated diffusion is limited by the number of transport proteins in the membrane, which is a notable difference compared to simple diffusion.
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Most Upvoted Answer
Which statement represents a notable difference between simple diffusi...
Key Difference between Simple Diffusion and Facilitated Diffusion

Rate Limitation:

- The notable difference between simple diffusion and facilitated diffusion is that the rate of facilitated diffusion is limited by the number of transport proteins in the membrane.
- In simple diffusion, molecules move across a membrane down their concentration gradient without the need for transport proteins. In contrast, facilitated diffusion requires specific transport proteins to facilitate the movement of molecules across the membrane.
Explanation:

- Facilitated diffusion involves the movement of molecules through transmembrane proteins, such as channels or carriers, that aid in the transport process. These proteins have a finite number within the membrane, and the rate of facilitated diffusion depends on the availability of these proteins.
- If there are limited transport proteins present in the membrane, the rate of facilitated diffusion will be lower compared to a situation where there are abundant transport proteins available.
- This limitation sets facilitated diffusion apart from simple diffusion, which is solely dependent on the concentration gradient and does not involve transport proteins.
Implications:

- The rate limitation of facilitated diffusion by the number of transport proteins makes it a more regulated process compared to simple diffusion.
- Cells can adjust the rate of facilitated diffusion by modulating the number of transport proteins present in the membrane, allowing for precise control over the movement of specific molecules.
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Which statement represents a notable difference between simple diffusion and facilitated diffusion?a)Unlike simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion can transport ligands against a concentration gradient.b)Unlike simple diffusion, the rate of facilitated diffusion is limited by the number of transport proteins in the membrane.c)Unlike simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion requires energy in the form of ATP.d)Unlike simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion can occur in any type of cell.Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer? for MCAT 2025 is part of MCAT preparation. The Question and answers have been prepared according to the MCAT exam syllabus. Information about Which statement represents a notable difference between simple diffusion and facilitated diffusion?a)Unlike simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion can transport ligands against a concentration gradient.b)Unlike simple diffusion, the rate of facilitated diffusion is limited by the number of transport proteins in the membrane.c)Unlike simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion requires energy in the form of ATP.d)Unlike simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion can occur in any type of cell.Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer? covers all topics & solutions for MCAT 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, meanings, examples, exercises and tests below for Which statement represents a notable difference between simple diffusion and facilitated diffusion?a)Unlike simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion can transport ligands against a concentration gradient.b)Unlike simple diffusion, the rate of facilitated diffusion is limited by the number of transport proteins in the membrane.c)Unlike simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion requires energy in the form of ATP.d)Unlike simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion can occur in any type of cell.Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?.
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