Cell Membrane

Front

What is the primary function of the cell (plasma) membrane?

Back

To act as a flexible boundary that separates the cell from its surroundings.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

Front

What are the main components of the cell membrane?

Back

Phospholipids, proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates.

Front

What does the term 'selectively permeable' mean in relation to the cell membrane?

Back

It means that the cell membrane allows certain substances to pass while blocking others.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

Front

How do proteins function in the plasma membrane?

Back

Proteins can act as channels, receptors, or enzymes, facilitating communication and transport.

Front

What is the role of cholesterol in the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol helps to stabilize the membrane's fluidity and structure.

Front

Define 'phospholipid bilayer'.

Back

A double layer of phospholipids that makes up the fundamental structure of the cell membrane.

Front

What does 'polar' mean in the context of molecules?

Back

A molecule has areas of positive and negative charge.

Front

What does 'hydrophobic' mean?

Back

Water fearing; it does not associate with water.

Front

What does 'hydrophilic' mean?

Back

Water loving; it associates with water.

Front

What is the significance of membrane fluidity?

Back

Membrane fluidity is important for the movement of proteins and lipids within the membrane and for the functioning of the cell.