IGCSE Biology glossary
Active transport
Biology editorial review is supported by the named review panel. Reviewer participation may vary by guide. Checked against Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 (2026–2028); last reviewed August 2026.
Definition
The movement of particles through a cell membrane from a region of lower concentration to a region of higher concentration, against a concentration gradient, using energy from respiration.
What to include in an exam answer
The two scoring points students drop: 'against the concentration gradient' and 'energy from respiration' (not just 'energy'). Classic applications in exam questions: root hair cells absorbing ions, and glucose reabsorption in the kidney.
Example in context
For root hair cells absorbing minerals: 'Mineral ions are absorbed by active transport, from the lower concentration in the soil to the higher concentration in the cell, against the concentration gradient, using energy from respiration.'
Related syllabus topic
Movement into & out of cells