Explain why glucose moves from the small intestine into the blood after a meal.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
After a meal, the concentration of glucose in the small intestine is much higher than the concentration of glucose in the blood.
Model answer (4 marks)
Glucose moves into the blood by diffusion.
The concentration of glucose is higher in the small intestine than in the blood, creating a concentration gradient.
Glucose therefore moves from the area of higher concentration (small intestine) to the area of lower concentration (blood).
This movement requires no energy.
The concentration of glucose is higher in the small intestine than in the blood, creating a concentration gradient.
Glucose therefore moves from the area of higher concentration (small intestine) to the area of lower concentration (blood).
This movement requires no energy.
Examiner tips
- Use the word ‘diffusion’ to show understanding of the mechanism.
- Mention the concentration gradient and the direction of movement.
- State that the process is passive and no energy is needed.
- Keep the answer concise – 4 marks can be achieved with 4 short points.
Common mistakes
- Confusing diffusion with active transport or osmosis.
- Failing to mention that no energy is required.
- Writing the answer in a long paragraph instead of clear points.
Mark scheme (4 marks)
- Glucose moves by diffusion
- There is a concentration gradient from the small intestine to the blood
- Glucose moves from an area of higher concentration (small intestine) to an area of lower concentration (blood)
- No energy is required for this movement
Related
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