Cell Membrane and Transport

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

Diffusion is the process by which molecules spread from areas of high concentration to areas of low concentration until equilibrium is reached.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the diffusion of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.

Front

Define hydrophilic.

Back

Hydrophilic means 'water-loving', referring to substances that can interact with or dissolve in water.

Front

What is 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 does homeostasis mean in the context of cells?

Back

Homeostasis refers to the ability of a cell to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.

Front

What is an 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 is the role of the cell membrane?

Back

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

Front

What is equilibrium in the context of diffusion?

Back

Equilibrium is the state reached when the concentration of molecules is equal throughout a space, resulting in no net movement.

Front

What does it mean for a molecule to be lipid soluble?

Back

Lipid soluble means that a molecule can dissolve in lipids (fats) and pass through the cell membrane easily.

Front

What is the difference between passive and active transport?

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.