Cell Membrane and Cell Transport

Front

What is the structure of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane is primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates.

Front

What are phospholipids?

Back

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

Front

What is the function of channel proteins?

Back

Channel proteins facilitate the transport of specific substances across the cell membrane, allowing ions and molecules to pass through.

Front

Define osmosis.

Back

Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

Diffusion is the process by which particles spread from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration until equilibrium is reached.

Front

What is passive transport?

Back

Passive transport is the movement of substances across the cell membrane without the use of energy, following the concentration gradient.

Front

What is active transport?

Back

Active transport is the movement of substances against their concentration gradient, requiring energy (ATP) to occur.

Front

What role do glycoproteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

Glycoproteins serve as recognition sites for cell signaling and communication, helping cells identify each other.

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.

Front

What is equilibrium in the context of cell transport?

Back

Equilibrium occurs when the concentration of a substance is equal on both sides of the membrane, resulting in no net movement of that substance.