In a few words, what do cells use to move materials?
Cells move material in and out through processes called diffusion, osmosis and active transport. Diffusion is the movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. Osmosis is the movement of water molecules through a semipermeable membrane.
Moving Material Through Cells
Diffusion: Movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. Osmosis: Movement of water molecules through a semipermeable membrane. Active Transport: Movement of molecules against the concentration gradient, with the help of proteins.
Concepts:
Which of the following best describes how material is moved through cells?
- A) All material moves in one direction
- B) Material moves both in and out of cells
- C) Material is transferred from one cell to another
- D) Material is only moved out of cells
The diffusion of oxygen from the air into our blood happens in our lungs and it’s how we get oxygen to the rest of our body. If you put a carrot in a cup of water, it can actually increase in size due to osmosis! Active transport is responsible for pumping calcium ions into a cell to make it contract.
Fun facts:
Draw / write: What are the different ways that materials can be moved through cells?
Draw / write: How do cells respond to the movement of materials through them?
What did you learn about the movement of materials through cells?
How could understanding the movement of materials through cells help you in your daily life?