Wednesday, August 1, 2012

STPM Biology - chapter 3: Revision essay question 3

Explain how compounds are taken by the cells .


Answer 

Compound can be taken up by cells via processes like phagocytosis , active transport , osmosis and facilitated diffusion . Large insoluble particles may be taken into a cell by the process of phagocytosis . In this process , the cell invaginates to form a cup-shaped depression to contain the particle . The depression is then pinched of , forming a vacuole , which fuses with lysosomes . Their enzymes then break down the particle and the useful contents are absorbed . This process is used to obtain particles that are too large for absorption via diffusion or active transport .

Active transport of compounds such as amino acids across call membranes is done against a concentration gradient , i.e. from a reion of low concentration to one of high concentration . Energy is required to drive the process of active transport . This transport involves carrier proteins situated in the cell surface membrane to carry the compounds across the membrane .

Osmosis involves the movement of water across the cell surface membrane from a region of higher water potential to a region of lower water potential . Thus , cells usually have lower water potential to ensure water is not lost .

Compounds such as glucose can be taken up by cells via facilitated diffusion . This process involves carrier proteins to facilitate the transfer of the substance down a diffusion gradient .

Assignment submitted by L.E., Teh, E.L., Wong, Tan Findy 2011/2012 (IBM)

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