Glucose is needed by all cells in order to do cellular respiration. How does glucose, a large molecule, enter cells without using cell energy?
a
via channel proteins using facilitated diffusion
b
osmosis moving against the concentration gradient
c
using proteins pumps and ATP
d
by employing active transport
a
via channel proteins using facilitated diffusion
The correct answer is:
a) via channel proteins using facilitated diffusion
Glucose enters cells through channel proteins using a process called facilitated diffusion. Facilitated diffusion does not require the cell to use energy to transport glucose across the cell membrane. Instead, special proteins known as glucose transporters or carrier proteins help facilitate the movement of glucose molecules across the cell membrane, down their concentration gradient. These transport proteins act as channels or tunnels that allow glucose to pass through the membrane, ensuring its entry into the cell.