Final answer:
Facilitated diffusion differs from active transport as it does not utilize energy, instead relying on the concentration gradient and transport proteins to move substances across the cell membrane.
Step-by-step explanation:
Facilitated diffusion is different from active transport because it does not use energy. In facilitated diffusion, substances move down their concentration gradients through the cell membrane with the aid of proteins such as channel proteins and carrier proteins. Unlike active transport, which requires energy in the form of ATP to move substances against their concentration gradient, facilitated diffusion capitalizes on the natural movement of particles from an area of higher to an area of lower concentration without the use of cellular energy.
Facilitated diffusion utilizes specific membrane proteins to aid the transport of substances, like glucose and ions, that are not able to directly pass through the lipid bilayer due to their size, charge, or polarity. This process is crucial for the cellular uptake of molecules like glucose, which is an important energy source for cells. By contrast, active transport processes allow cells to maintain concentration gradients that are vital for functions such as nerve impulse conduction and muscle contraction.