Cell Membrane Structure and Function

Front

What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

Back

To protect the cell and regulate what enters and exits.

Front

What are the main components of the cell membrane?

Back

Phospholipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and cholesterol.

Front

Define selectively permeable in the context of the cell membrane.

Back

It means that the cell membrane allows certain substances to pass while blocking others.

Front

What role do proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

They assist in transport, act as receptors, and provide structural support.

Front

What is the structure of a phospholipid?

Back

A phospholipid consists of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails.

Front

How does cholesterol affect the fluidity of the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol helps maintain membrane fluidity by preventing phospholipid tails from sticking together.

Front

What are glycoproteins and their function in the cell membrane?

Back

Glycoproteins are proteins with carbohydrate chains that play a role in cell recognition and signaling.

Front

What is the significance of the fluid mosaic model?

Back

It describes the cell membrane as a flexible structure with various proteins embedded in or attached to a bilayer of phospholipids.

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 the role of carbohydrates in the cell membrane?

Back

Carbohydrates are involved in cell recognition and communication.