1. Passive Membrane Transport By: Claudia Girardi & Emily Knisely

2. Passive Membrane Transport Description Passive membrane transport is the movement of molecules down the concentration gradient. In other words, molecules move from high to low concentration in order to maintain balance within the cells. This process does not require energy. Passive transport relies on the ability of the cell membrane to selectively allow substances to pass through its component proteins and lipids. This is called selective permeability.

3. Passive Membrane Transport Passive transport processes always move solutes down the concentration gradient. A few examples are: 1.Diffusion through the bilayer. 2.Diffusion through membrane pores or gated channels. 3.Facilitated diffusion using transporter membrane proteins.  Osmosis is a special case of passive transport in which water moves from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.

4. Importance to the Cell Membrane transport is essential for cellular life. As cells proceed through their life cycle, a large amount of exchange is necessary to maintain function. Transport may involve the incorporation of biological molecules and the discharge of waste products that are necessary for normal function. The primary organelle involved in passive transport is the selectively permeable cell membrane. Organelles Involved

5. Link & Sources Passive Transport Video Gedman, Bryan. Passive Membrane Transport Claudia Girardi, Emily Knisely. 15 May 2014. Passive Transport. 13 July 2009. 13 May 2014. Passive Transport. n.d. 13 May 2014.