Plasma Membrane (Cell Membrane)

Front

What is the plasma membrane?

Back

The flexible boundary of a cell that separates a cell from its surroundings.

Front

What are phospholipids?

Back

Molecules that make up the plasma membrane, consisting of a hydrophilic 'head' and two hydrophobic 'tails'.

Front

What part of a phospholipid is hydrophobic?

Back

The lipid 'tails'.

Front

What part of a phospholipid is hydrophilic?

Back

The phosphate 'head'.

Front

What does 'hydrophobic' mean?

Back

Water fearing, does not associate with water.

Front

What does 'hydrophilic' mean?

Back

Water loving, associates with water.

Front

Which type of biological macromolecule is the main component of the plasma membrane?

Back

Lipid.

Front

What role do proteins play in the plasma membrane?

Back

They may extend partway into the plasma membrane, cross the membrane entirely, or be loosely attached to its inside or outside face.

Front

What are integral proteins?

Back

Proteins that span the entire membrane and are involved in transport and communication.

Front

What are peripheral proteins?

Back

Proteins that are attached to the exterior or interior surfaces of the membrane and play roles in signaling.