Question
How is facilitated diffusion different from diffusion?

Answer

S. No.
Simple diffusion
Facilitated diffusion
1.
Simple diffusion does not require the assistance of a carrier molecule.
Facilitated diffusion can occur only with the assistance from a carrier molecule.
2. The speed of simple diffusion is relatively slow. The speed of facilitated diffusion is comparatively fast.
3.
Simple diffusion is not solute specific.
Facilitated diffusion is always solute specific.
4.
The simple diffusion process cannot be inhibited by an inhibitor molecule.
The facilitated diffusion can be inhibited by specific inhibitor which binds to the carrier molecules.
5.
Simple diffusion is always a passive process.
Facilitated diffusion may be an active or passive process.
6.
Simple diffusion does not require energy from ATP.
Facilitated diffusion may or may not require energy from ATP.
7.
In simple diffusion, the molecules can pass only in the direction of concentration gradient.
In facilitated diffusion, the molecules can pass both in direction and opposite of the concentration gradient.
8.
Simple diffusion permits the passage of only small and nonpolar molecules across the plasma membrane.
Facilitated diffusion permits the passage of large and polar molecules across the plasma membrane.

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