Cell Membrane

Front

What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane controls what goes in and out of the cell.

Front

What does the term 'selectively permeable' mean in relation to the cell membrane?

Back

It means that some substances can pass through the cell membrane while others cannot.

Front

What is the structure of a phospholipid?

Back

A phospholipid consists of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) phosphate head and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) fatty acid tails.

Front

What does the term 'fluid mosaic model' refer to?

Back

The fluid mosaic model describes the cell membrane as a flexible structure with various proteins embedded in or attached to a double layer of phospholipids.

Front

What role do proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

Proteins in the cell membrane assist in transport, act as receptors, and provide structural support.

Front

What are carbohydrates' function in the cell membrane?

Back

Carbohydrates on the cell membrane help in cell recognition and communication.

Front

What is the significance of cholesterol in the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol helps to stabilize the cell membrane's fluidity and structure.

Front

What are hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions in the context of the cell membrane?

Back

Hydrophilic regions are attracted to water, while hydrophobic regions repel water, which is crucial for the formation of the lipid bilayer.

Front

How does the cell membrane contribute to homeostasis?

Back

The cell membrane regulates the internal environment of the cell by controlling the movement of substances in and out.

Front

What is the difference between passive and active transport across the cell membrane?

Back

Passive transport does not require energy and moves substances down their concentration gradient, while active transport requires energy to move substances against their concentration gradient.