The process that provides the energy required to transport substances against a concentration gradient is called active transport. This process requires cellular energy, typically in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), to move substances from areas of low concentration to areas of high concentration, against their natural gradient. Active transport is carried out by specific carrier proteins or pumps in the cell membrane, such as the sodium-potassium pump, which uses ATP to transport ions across membranes against their concentration gradients.
Summary of Active Transport Process
- Active transport moves substances against the concentration or electrochemical gradient.
- It requires energy derived from ATP hydrolysis.
- Specific carrier proteins or pumps facilitate this process.
- It is essential for maintaining cellular functions and concentration balances of ions and molecules.
This energy-dependent transport mechanism contrasts with passive transport, which moves substances along their concentration gradient without energy input.