2.3 Cell Transport

Front

What is the main function of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane is selectively permeable, allowing certain substances to enter or exit the cell while maintaining homeostasis.

Front

Define diffusion.

Back

Diffusion is the movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration until equilibrium is reached.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the diffusion of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Front

What is active transport?

Back

Active transport is the movement of substances across a cell membrane against their concentration gradient, requiring energy (ATP).

Front

What is passive transport?

Back

Passive transport is the movement of substances across a cell membrane without the use of energy, following the concentration gradient.

Front

What is a hypotonic solution?

Back

A hypotonic solution has a lower concentration of solutes compared to the inside of the cell, causing water to enter the cell and potentially leading to cell swelling.

Front

What is a hypertonic solution?

Back

A hypertonic solution has a higher concentration of solutes compared to the inside of the cell, causing water to leave the cell and potentially leading to cell shrinkage.

Front

What is an isotonic solution?

Back

An isotonic solution has an equal concentration of solutes inside and outside the cell, resulting in no net movement of water.

Front

Explain the concept of homeostasis in cells.

Back

Homeostasis is the ability of a cell to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.

Front

What role do transport proteins play in cell transport?

Back

Transport proteins facilitate the movement of substances across the cell membrane, either passively or actively.