Difference between absorption and assimilation

By: Prof. Dr. Fazal Rehman | Last updated: February 3, 2024

Let me share with you a difference between absorption and assimilation.

Aspect Absorption Assimilation
Introduction The process of taking up of substances, such as nutrients, by cells or tissues The process of incorporating absorbed nutrients into the body’s own structures and molecules
Occurrence Primarily occurs at the surface of cells or tissues Takes place within cells or tissues
Efficiency A relatively rapid process, occurring as nutrients move across membranes A more gradual and continuous process that involves ongoing cellular activities
End products The end products of absorption are the same as the absorbed substances The end products of assimilation are newly formed molecules, such as proteins, lipids, and glycogen
Purpose Facilitates the uptake of nutrients from the environment into the organism Utilizes absorbed nutrients to meet the energy needs and build and maintain the organism’s own structures
Examples

 

 

·        Absorption of water and minerals by plant roots

·        Absorption of nutrients in the small intestine of animals

·        Incorporation of amino acids into proteins

·        Conversion of glucose into ATP through cellular respiration

All Copyrights Reserved 2025 Reserved by T4Tutorials