The translocation rate of a solute across a membrane is measured.A plot of translocation rate versus solute concentration displays a hyperbolic curve.The translation
A) could be occurring through a passive transport channel.
B) could be occurring by diffusion.
C) could be occurring through a passive transport carrier.
D) must require an input of energy.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A hyperbolic curve suggests that the translocation is saturable, meaning there is a limit to the rate of transport based on the availability of a particular transport protein. This indicates that the solute is likely transported via a carrier protein rather than through passive diffusion. Since the transport is passive, no input of energy is required, making option A incorrect. Option B is also incorrect since diffusion does not involve the use of carrier proteins. Thus, option C is the best choice as it correctly describes the transport mechanism.

The Translocation Rate of a Solute Across a Membrane Is