AP Biology · Unit 2: Cells
2.5 Membrane Transport
In short
You must understand the mechanisms of passive and active transport, including the energy requirements and direction of movement relative to concentration gradients. You should know that selective permeability allows for concentration gradients. Furthermore, you must understand the processes of endocytosis and exocytosis for transporting large molecules, specifically that both require energy, and be able to describe the membrane folding and vesicle fusion involved in these processes.
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Can you do these?
- I can describe passive transport as the movement of molecules from high to low concentration without metabolic energy.
- I can describe active transport as requiring direct energy input to move molecules, often against their concentration gradient.
- I can explain how endocytosis and exocytosis require energy to move large substances into and out of cells via vesicle formation and fusion.
How is Membrane Transport tested on the exam?
The topic is associated with the skill 'Questions and Methods' (3.D), meaning you may be asked to propose a new investigation based on an evaluation of experimental design or evidence related to membrane transport. Questions may test the ability to distinguish between active and passive transport based on energy input and concentration gradients, and to describe the mechanisms of endocytosis and exocytosis.
Free practice questions with full explanations, and instant marking of your free-response answers.
Membrane Transport: common questions
What do you need to know about Membrane Transport for AP Biology?
You must understand the mechanisms of passive and active transport, including the energy requirements and direction of movement relative to concentration gradients. You should know that selective permeability allows for concentration gradients. Furthermore, you must understand the processes of endocytosis and exocytosis for transporting large molecules, specifically that both require energy, and be able to describe the membrane folding and vesicle fusion involved in these processes.
How is Membrane Transport tested on the AP Biology exam?
The topic is associated with the skill 'Questions and Methods' (3.D), meaning you may be asked to propose a new investigation based on an evaluation of experimental design or evidence related to membrane transport.
How do I know I have mastered Membrane Transport?
Check you can do each of these: describe passive transport as the movement of molecules from high to low concentration without metabolic energy; describe active transport as requiring direct energy input to move molecules, often against their concentration gradient; explain how endocytosis and exocytosis require energy to move large substances into and out of cells via vesicle formation and fusion.
Where does Membrane Transport fit in AP Biology?
Membrane Transport is topic 2.5 in Unit 2: Cells of AP Biology.
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