Membrane transport is very important for how cells work. It can be split into two main types: passive transport and active transport.

Passive Transport

1. Diffusion: This is when molecules move from an area where they are crowded to an area where they are less crowded. Imagine spraying perfume in a room; it spreads out on its own.
2. Facilitated Diffusion: This process uses special proteins to help bigger or charged molecules, like glucose, cross the cell membrane without using energy.

Active Transport

1. Primary Active Transport: This type needs energy, usually from a molecule called ATP, to move things against their natural flow. A good example of this is the sodium-potassium pump, which pushes sodium out of the cell and brings potassium in.
2. Secondary Active Transport: This one relies on energy but in a roundabout way. It uses the energy created by primary active transport to move other substances.

In short, passive transport happens naturally without needing energy, while active transport needs energy to help the cell keep working properly.