Cell membrane and Diffusion

Front

What is the function of the plasma membrane?

Back

To regulate what enters and leaves the cell.

Front

What are the main components of the plasma membrane?

Back

Phospholipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and cholesterol.

Front

What is a phospholipid?

Back

A molecule that makes up the cell membrane, consisting of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails.

Front

What does 'hydrophobic' mean in the context of the cell membrane?

Back

Refers to the part of the membrane that repels water, typically the fatty acid tails of phospholipids.

Front

What does 'hydrophilic' mean in the context of the cell membrane?

Back

Refers to the part of the membrane that attracts water, typically the phosphate heads of phospholipids.

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

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

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

The diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.

Front

What is a hypertonic solution?

Back

A solution that has a higher concentration of solutes compared to another solution.

Front

What is a hypotonic solution?

Back

A solution that has a lower concentration of solutes compared to another solution.

Front

What is an isotonic solution?

Back

A solution that has the same concentration of solutes as another solution.