Cell membrane and cell transport

Front

What is the function of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane controls what substances may enter or leave the cell, helping to maintain homeostasis.

Front

What does it mean when a cell is in an isotonic solution?

Back

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

Front

Define facilitated diffusion.

Back

Facilitated diffusion is the process by which substances move across the cell membrane with the help of transport proteins, without using energy.

Front

What is the difference between hydrophobic and hydrophilic substances?

Back

Hydrophobic substances repel water and do not mix with it, while hydrophilic substances attract water and can dissolve in it.

Front

What does permeable mean in the context of cell membranes?

Back

Permeable means that substances can pass through the membrane.

Front

What is the role of transport proteins in the cell membrane?

Back

Transport proteins assist in the movement of substances across the cell membrane, either by facilitated diffusion or active transport.

Front

What is active transport?

Back

Active transport is the movement of substances against their concentration gradient, requiring energy (ATP) to do so.

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 is the significance of the hydrophobic core of the cell membrane?

Back

The hydrophobic core prevents the passage of polar substances, allowing only nonpolar substances to pass through easily.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypertonic solution?

Back

In a hypertonic solution, water moves out of the cell, causing it to shrink.