Cell membrane and Diffusion

Front

What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

Back

To regulate what enters and leaves the cell.

Front

What is homeostasis?

Back

The state of equilibrium in a cell's internal environment.

Front

What does hydrophobic mean?

Back

Water-fearing; refers to the tail of a phospholipid.

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

The movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.

Front

What part of a phospholipid is hydrophilic?

Back

The phosphate 'head'.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

The diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.

Front

What is an isotonic solution?

Back

A solution where the concentration of solutes is equal inside and outside the cell.

Front

What is active transport?

Back

The movement of molecules against their concentration gradient, requiring energy.

Front

What role do proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

They assist in the transport of substances across the membrane.

Front

What is a selectively permeable membrane?

Back

A membrane that allows certain molecules to pass while blocking others.