Cell Membrane and Cell Transport

Front

What is the structure of a phospholipid?

Back

A phospholipid consists of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) 'head' and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) 'tails'. This structure allows phospholipids to form bilayers in cell membranes.

Front

What does hydrophilic mean?

Back

Hydrophilic refers to substances that are attracted to water and can interact with it, such as the 'head' of a phospholipid.

Front

What does hydrophobic mean?

Back

Hydrophobic refers to substances that repel water and do not mix with it, such as the 'tails' of a phospholipid.

Front

What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane regulates what enters and exits the cell, providing protection and structural support.

Front

What is active transport?

Back

Active transport is the process of moving molecules across a cell membrane from an area of lower concentration to an area of higher concentration, requiring energy (ATP).

Front

What is passive transport?

Back

Passive transport is the movement of molecules across a cell membrane without the use of energy, typically moving from high to low concentration.

Front

What role does ATP play in cellular processes?

Back

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) serves as the primary energy carrier in cells, providing energy for various cellular functions, including active transport.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

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

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypertonic solution?

Back

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

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypotonic solution?

Back

In a hypotonic solution, water moves into the cell, causing the cell to swell and potentially burst.