O LevelBiologyCambridge (CIE)Revision Notes3. Movement into & out of Cells3.2 Active TransportImportance of Active Transport

Importance of Active Transport (Cambridge (CIE) O Level Biology): Revision Note

Exam code: 5090

Written by: Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewed by: Lucy Kirkham

Updated on 2 July 2026

Importance of Active Transport

Energy is needed because particles are being moved against a concentration gradient, in the opposite direction from which they would naturally move (by diffusion)
Active transport is a vital process for the movement of molecules or ions across membranes
Including:
- Uptake of glucose by epithelial cells in the villi of the small intestine and by kidney tubules in the nephron
- Uptake of ions from soil water by root hair cells in plants

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Author: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Content Creator

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

Reviewer: Lucy Kirkham

Expertise: Content Creator

Lucy has been a passionate Maths teacher for over 12 years, teaching maths across the UK and abroad helping to engage, interest and develop confidence in the subject at all levels.Working as a Head of Department and then Director of Maths, Lucy has advised schools and academy trusts in both Scotland and the East Midlands, where her role was to support and coach teachers to improve Maths teaching for all.