Cell Membrane and Passive Transport

Front

What is the main function of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane regulates what enters and exits the cell, providing protection and support.

Front

Define isotonic solution.

Back

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

Front

What is passive transport?

Back

Passive transport is the movement of molecules across the cell membrane without the use of energy.

Front

What is facilitated diffusion?

Back

Facilitated diffusion is a type of passive transport that uses protein channels to help move molecules across the membrane.

Front

What is simple diffusion?

Back

Simple diffusion is the movement of small or nonpolar molecules directly through the phospholipid bilayer of the cell membrane.

Front

What does it mean if a solution is hypertonic?

Back

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

Front

What does it mean if a solution is hypotonic?

Back

A hypotonic solution has a lower concentration of solutes compared to the inside of the cell, causing water to move into the cell.

Front

What are phospholipids?

Back

Phospholipids are molecules that make up the cell membrane, consisting of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails.

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 is the fluid mosaic model?

Back

The fluid mosaic model describes the cell membrane as a flexible layer made of various proteins and lipids that move freely.