What is active transport?
In GCSE biology, active transport is defined as the movement of particles across a membrane from an area of low concentration to an area of high concentration. This movement occurs against a concentration gradient, so energy is required. During active transport, particles must travel via a protein carrier molecule rather than directly across the membrane.
An example of active transport in GCSE biology is the movement of mineral ions from the soil into root hair cells in plants. In animals, active transport can occur in the intestine to move glucose from the lumen of the intestine into the surrounding blood capillaries.
Active transport revision resources to ace your exams
You can explore the topic of active transport further as part of our selection of revision notes on transport in and out of cells:
Our GCSE Biology resources have all you need to prepare you for your exams, from revision notes, videos, and flashcards to past papers and mark schemes.
Sign up for articles sent directly to your inbox
Receive news, articles and guides directly from our team of experts.
Written by Cara Head
Biology Content Creator10 articlesCara graduated from the University of Exeter in 2005 with a degree in Biological Sciences. She has fifteen years of experience teaching the Sciences at KS3 to KS5, and Psychology at A-Level. Cara has taught in a range of secondary schools across the South West of England before joining the team at SME. Cara is passionate about Biology and creating resources that bring the subject alive and deepen students' understanding
Share this article
written revision resources that improve your