Prepare for the Foundations of Biology Exam 1. Dive into key biological concepts with multiple choice questions, hints, and explanations. Ace the exam with our efficient study methods!

Multiple Choice

In facilitated diffusion of water, what is the role of aquaporins?

The main idea is that aquaporins provide a selective water channel that speeds up the movement of water across the membrane by facilitated diffusion. They are integral membrane proteins that form a hydrophilic pore, allowing water molecules to pass rapidly while excluding ions and larger solutes. Because this happens down the water concentration (osmotic) gradient and does not require energy, aquaporins act as facilitators of passive water movement, not pumps or chemical converters. They also don’t degrade water. So the role is to dramatically increase the rate of water diffusion by providing a dedicated channel.

The main idea is that aquaporins provide a selective water channel that speeds up the movement of water across the membrane by facilitated diffusion. They are integral membrane proteins that form a hydrophilic pore, allowing water molecules to pass rapidly while excluding ions and larger solutes. Because this happens down the water concentration (osmotic) gradient and does not require energy, aquaporins act as facilitators of passive water movement, not pumps or chemical converters. They also don’t degrade water. So the role is to dramatically increase the rate of water diffusion by providing a dedicated channel.