Cell Membrane & Transport

Front

What is the hydrophilic portion of the cell membrane?

Back

The hydrophilic portion of the cell membrane refers to the 'head' of the phospholipid molecules that are attracted to water, allowing the membrane to interact with the aqueous environment.

Front

What is passive transport?

Back

Passive transport is the movement of particles across a cell membrane from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration without the use of energy.

Front

What is a hypotonic solution?

Back

A hypotonic solution is one where the concentration of solutes is lower outside the cell than inside, causing water to flow into the cell, potentially leading to swelling.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypertonic solution?

Back

In a hypertonic solution, the concentration of solutes is higher outside the cell than inside, causing water to flow out of the cell, leading to cell shrinkage.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the passive transport of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.

Front

What is active transport?

Back

Active transport is the movement of particles against their concentration gradient, from an area of low concentration to an area of high concentration, requiring energy.

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 role do phospholipids play in the cell membrane?

Back

Phospholipids form the basic structure of the cell membrane, creating a bilayer that is selectively permeable to substances.

Front

What is the function of membrane proteins?

Back

Membrane proteins assist in transporting substances across the membrane, act as receptors for signaling, and provide structural support.

Front

What is the significance of the fluid mosaic model?

Back

The fluid mosaic model describes the cell membrane as a dynamic structure with various proteins floating in or on the fluid lipid bilayer, allowing for flexibility and movement.