Plasma Membrane Structure

Front

What is the plasma membrane?

Back

The flexible boundary of a cell that separates a cell from its surroundings and controls what comes in and goes out.

Front

Where are carbohydrates located in the plasma membrane?

Back

On the outside of the membrane.

Front

Where can proteins be found in the plasma membrane?

Back

On the outside, inside, embedded partway, or embedded the whole way through the membrane.

Front

What is the main component of the plasma membrane?

Back

Lipid.

Front

What part of a phospholipid is hydrophobic?

Back

The lipid 'tails'.

Front

What role do carbohydrates play in the plasma membrane?

Back

They form distinctive cellular markers attached to proteins or lipids.

Front

What is the function of the plasma membrane?

Back

To control the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

Front

What are phospholipids?

Back

Molecules that make up the plasma membrane, consisting of hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails.

Front

What is the significance of the fluid mosaic model?

Back

It describes the plasma membrane as a flexible structure with various proteins embedded in or attached to a double layer of phospholipids.

Front

What is the role of cholesterol in the plasma membrane?

Back

To stabilize the membrane's fluidity and maintain its integrity.