Cell Membrane Structure Review Flashcard

Front

What is the function of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane regulates what enters and leaves the cell, helping to maintain homeostasis.

Front

True or False: All cells have a cell membrane.

Back

True

Front

What are the lipid tails of the cell membrane known for?

Back

They are hydrophobic (water-fearing) and help form the barrier of the membrane.

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 direction do substances naturally move across the cell membrane?

Back

From high concentration to low concentration.

Front

What is the role of proteins in the cell membrane?

Back

Proteins assist in transporting substances across the membrane and can act as receptors for signaling.

Front

Define selective permeability in relation to the cell membrane.

Back

Selective permeability is the property of the cell membrane that allows certain substances to pass while blocking others.

Front

What is the structure that provides support and protection to plant cells, but is not found in animal cells?

Back

The cell wall.

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 gradient.

Front

What is a phospholipid?

Back

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