BASEBiological Archive
for Science & Education
Search
HomeExploreConcentration Gradients
Concept

Concentration Gradients

Concentration gradients

Differences in a molecule's concentration across space that can drive diffusion and help power transport.

Overview

EXPLORE BY LEVEL

If there are more molecules in one place than another, they tend to spread out. Cells use and maintain these differences to move substances and power processes.

Quick Facts

AT A GLANCE
Explore nextCell biology

Follow the Connections

See how Concentration Gradients links to other biological records.

Open network
ProcessPassive Membrane transportmoves downProcessActive Membrane Transportcan buildConceptProton-motive Forcecontributes to
All 3 Structured Connections
Passive Membrane transport · ProcessMOVES DOWN →Concentration Gradients · Concept
Active Membrane Transport · ProcessCAN BUILD →Concentration Gradients · Concept
Concentration Gradients · ConceptCONTRIBUTES TO →Proton-motive Force · Concept

Recommended Reading

Trusted references for learning more about Concentration Gradients.

textbookMembrane Transport and Electrical PropertiesMolecular Biology of the Cell · NCBI Bookshelf textbookThe Mechanism of Oxidative PhosphorylationThe Cell · NCBI Bookshelf
Research Claims

Gradients are non-equilibrium state variables maintained by transport, reaction, and boundary conditions. Their functional effect depends on permeability and coupling mechanisms.