Which of the following statements about facilitated diffusion is true
**Core Concept**
Facilitated diffusion is a type of passive transport that allows certain molecules to cross the cell membrane down their concentration gradient. This process involves the assistance of carrier proteins or channel proteins, which increase the rate of diffusion without altering the equilibrium of the molecule across the membrane.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Facilitated diffusion is essential for the movement of molecules such as glucose, amino acids, and ions across the cell membrane. The process involves the binding of the molecule to the carrier protein, which undergoes a conformational change, allowing the molecule to be released on the opposite side of the membrane. This process is highly specific, with each carrier protein binding to a specific molecule. For example, the glucose transporter (GLUT) is a type of carrier protein that facilitates the transport of glucose across the cell membrane.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Facilitated diffusion requires energy input from the cell. This is incorrect because facilitated diffusion is a passive process that does not require energy input.
**Option B:** Facilitated diffusion is the primary mechanism of transport for large molecules. This is incorrect because facilitated diffusion is limited to small molecules that can bind to carrier proteins.
**Option C:** Facilitated diffusion is an active transport process. This is incorrect because facilitated diffusion is a passive process that does not require energy input.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The glucose transporter (GLUT) is a type of carrier protein that is responsible for the transport of glucose across the cell membrane. There are several types of GLUT proteins, each with different tissue distributions and kinetic properties.
**Correct Answer: None of the above. This question is incomplete without options.**