Question

Why is endocytosis considered a mode of active transport? what process of active transport is the reverse of endocytosis?

Answer 1

Endocytosis is considered active transport because it requires that the cell use energy.

Explanation:

During endocytosis (endo means inside) a cell will use its cell membrane to engulf an object which is outside of the cell. This process takes effort by the cell, so it needs to use energy (ATP!)

The process which is the reverse of endocytosis is exocytosis (exo means outside - think exit).

Here is a review of transport topics - skip foward to 7:20 for discussion of endocytosis and exocytosis.

Video from: Noel Pauller