Cell Membrane & Transport Flashcard

Front

What is Exocytosis?

Back

Exocytosis is the process by which cells use energy to transport large particles out of the cell by vesicles that fuse with the cell membrane.

Front

Define Isotonic solution.

Back

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

Front

What prevents water from moving directly through the phospholipid bilayer?

Back

The hydrophobic nature of the phospholipid tails prevents water from moving directly through the bilayer.

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 is Facilitated Diffusion?

Back

Facilitated diffusion is a type of passive transport that allows substances to cross membranes with the assistance of special proteins.

Front

What is the role of cholesterol in the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol helps to stabilize the fluidity of the cell membrane, making it less permeable to very small water-soluble molecules.

Front

Define Active Transport.

Back

Active transport is the movement of molecules across a cell membrane from a region of lower concentration to a region of higher concentration, requiring energy.

Front

What is a hypertonic solution?

Back

A hypertonic solution has a higher concentration of solutes compared to the inside of the cell, causing water to leave the cell.

Front

What are phospholipids?

Back

Phospholipids are molecules that make up the cell membrane, consisting of a hydrophilic head and two hydrophobic tails.

Front

What is the function of glycoproteins in the cell membrane?

Back

Glycoproteins serve as recognition sites for cell signaling and help in cell-cell communication.