Question

Protein molecules embedded in the structure illustrated below are often utilized during facilitated diffusion. The process is an example of which of the following cellular processes?

Option 1: Synthesis of new molecules
Option 2: Energy conversions
Option 3: Immune response
Option 4: Transport of molecules

Answer 1

Facilitated diffusion involves the movement of molecules across a cell membrane using protein molecules without energy expenditure, connecting it to Option 4: Transport of molecules.

Step-by-step explanation:

Protein molecules embedded in membranes play an essential role in various forms of cellular transport, one of which is facilitated diffusion. During facilitated diffusion, substances move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration with the aid of transport proteins, such as channel proteins and carrier proteins. These transport proteins assist in stabilizing polar or charged molecules that would otherwise be repelled by the hydrophobic interior of the lipid bilayer, thus allowing them to pass through the membrane without expending energy. As protein molecules are involved and the movement of molecules is being facilitated across a membrane, the process most closely correlates with Option 4: Transport of molecules.