Cell Membrane and Transport

Front

What is the main function of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell, providing protection and support.

Front

Define passive transport.

Back

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

Front

Define active transport.

Back

Active transport is the movement of substances against a concentration gradient, requiring energy (usually in the form of ATP).

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the diffusion of water molecules from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration through a selectively permeable membrane.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypotonic solution?

Back

In a hypotonic solution, water enters the cell, causing it to swell and potentially burst.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypertonic solution?

Back

In a hypertonic solution, water leaves the cell, causing it to shrink or shrivel.

Front

What is an isotonic solution?

Back

An isotonic solution has the same concentration of solutes as the cell, resulting in no net movement of water.

Front

What is a solute?

Back

A solute is the substance that is dissolved in a solution.

Front

What is a solvent?

Back

A solvent is the substance that does the dissolving in a solution.

Front

Explain the term 'selectively permeable'.

Back

Selectively permeable refers to a property of cell membranes that allows certain molecules to pass through while blocking others.